NSW Libraries are pushing for an increase to their state funding, and after a recommendation from the Finance and Policy Committee, Dubbo City Council will put their support behind the campaign.
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The NSW Public Library Association, which represents country and metropolitan libaries, requested the support for their campaign which they hope wiill make state decision makers aware of funding shortfalls.
Finance and Policy Committee chairperson, councillor Allan Smith said public libraries like the Macquarie Regional Library are vital community resources that require appropriate funding.
"As well as lending books and encouraging a love of reading and lifelong learning libraries like the Dubbo branch of the Macquarie Regional Library are community hubs," Cr Smith said.
They host a variety of community organisations like writers groups, youth groups, story-time for preschoolers and are essential for local historians and family researchers.
"The Dubbo Branch receives just 6.7 per cent of its total funding from the State Government. Local Councils like Dubbo City Council are therefore required to make up the balance," Cr Smith said.
"The NSW Library Council is advocating for a base level of public library funding for councils with a population greater than 20,000 people as well as a modest grant increase in per capita allocations which is currently $1.85 per NSW resident.
"If council endorses the recommendation to support this campaign council will make representations through the Local State Member in relation to the need for additional funding from the NSW state government.
"Posters and a petition will also be displayed at the Dubbo Branch of the Macquarie Regional Library to support the public campaign."
The Finance and Policy Committee has also recommended Dubbo City Council continue with the joint venture arrangements of the Macquarie Regional Library by adopting the Draft Macquarie Regional Library Agreement 2014-2018.
