The popular Bentleigh Library is set to be transformed into a new hub for community services thanks to the Victorian Government.
Local Government Minister Shaun Leane has announced Glen Eira City Council will receive $1 million from the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.
The investment will redevelop Bentleigh Library as a community centre and base for the council’s youth services, including counselling and career advice.
It will also create space for expanded collections, training classes and popular programs for children and seniors.
The project has also received $5 million from the Community Infrastructure Loans Scheme, which offers low-interest, subsidised loans to councils for infrastructure projects.
Since 2015 the government has invested more than $32.5 million into 95 Living Libraries projects, allowing a total investment of $236.8 million for new libraries, upgrades to existing facilities and library vans.
The 2021 round of the program is the biggest in its history, part of a record $56.9 million commitment to libraries from the 2020-2021 Victorian Budget.
For more information on Living Libraries and this year’s successful applications visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au.
Source: Vic Government