West Gippsland Libraries - My Community Library

Leanne Williams at Foster, 24/7-access library service

Can you tell us more about why West Gippsland Libraries is not remaining a library corporation? Can you tell us what changes library members can expect to see?

The biggest change that our existing members will see is our name changing to Myli – My Community Library in December, 2021. The library service our community knows and loves will continue to meet and exceed the expectations. Our buildings will still be called a ‘library’ and our member Councils are committed to and will continue to fund library services.

What is the benefit of becoming a not-for-profit?

Being a not-for-profit with charitable status there will be a range of opportunities that will benefit library members, staff and Councils. There will be more fundraising opportunities that will support greater investment in our services like more programs, resources and support for library members. We also have an opportunity to grow by providing our specialist library service to other Councils and communities.

Can you tell us more about the 24/7 library service and how it began?

We first piloted the 24/7 library service in Foster. We are implementing two more 24/7 libraries in Mirboo North and Poowong. Our Board have decided that all of our libraries will provide a 24/7 service as opportunities arise. The 24/7 library service provides greater access to our libraries with the convenience that communities are seeking. Members of the 24/7 service can access the library anytime, 7 days a week.

Can you tell us more about what a 24/7 library is?

Our 24/7 libraries are just like a 24/7 gym. Members can apply to get a swipe card to be able to come in and use the library when it suits them. There are strict controls but it operates very similar to a 24/7 gym. It’s been really well received by our community and as a result we have had a lot of media attention across Australia, as well as New Zealand.

How are people using the 24/7 library service?

The Victorian Local Government Act 2020 is removing library corporations and how they are formed under section 196. This new act gives library corporations 10 years for Councils and Library Boards to make a decision on how best they would like to deliver their library services in the future. Libraries tend to operate within usual business hours and we were finding this doesn’t suit everyone, particularly people who work or study full time. To provide that added flexibility, the 24/7 access means that people can pop-in at time that suits them.

So why did West Gippsland Libraries decide to make this decision now and not wait?

Our Board have been in discussions around the change for the last few years because it is quite a complex process. We decided to take up the decision earlier to provide continuity for our organisation to set us up for the future and allow us to take up the benefits of going first.

Can you tell us more about the changes?

Our Board, and all three of our Member Councils: Bass Coast, Baw Baw and South Gippsland; have adopted to transition from a library corporation to a not-for-profit with charity status. This gives us long term sustainability to continue to deliver our specialised library service like 24/7 libraries and programs like Books by Us. Not just to our current region but we have plans to grow the service as well.

West Gippsland Libraries is becoming a not-for-profit organisation called Myli – My Community Library. We’ve asked Leanne Williams, CEO of Myli – My Community Library Ltd to tell us more about this change and what this means for the future of library services.

Can you tell us more about the Books by us program?

Students are coached by a published author to write their book that is published, they visit a printer and have a red-carpet book launch. The books are then catalogued in the library to share and be borrowed by parents and the whole community. It provides 360-degree engagement with students, parents, schools, businesses and the community. It’s so much fun and a great way to engage with everyone.

What else can we expect to see from Myli – My Community Library?

We remain committed to delivering a modern library service that includes more than physical library spaces. We have an equal focus on virtual spaces and physical places. We will continue to deliver programs and free resources to provide opportunities for connection and learning both online and in person.

How can we learn more?

We have more information and a list of FAQs on our website: www.myli.org.au, you can call 1800 HI MYLI or visit your local branch to learn more.

At the Books by us program red carpet book launch at Loch Primary School

Lock Primary School students celebrating their red carpet book launch at the Books by us program