MELBOURNE PLANNING STRATEGY DISCUSSION PAPER
Review of Victorian Public Libraries Stage 1 Report
DECEMBER 2012
CONTENTS
1 Foreword 3
2 Executive Summary 5
Overview 6
Key findings 6
The Victorian Library 7
Benefits of the Victorian Library 8
Positioning public libraries for the future 9
Next steps 9
3 Tomorrow’s Library Review 10
3.1 The review 11
3.2 Today’s library 16
3.3 The changing environment 19
3.4 Future trends 22
3.5 Submissions and contributions 26
3.6 Tomorrow’s library 37
4 The Victorian Library 39
4.1 What is the Victorian Library? 40
4.2 Creating the Victorian Library 43
4.3 Initiatives and responsibilities 44
4.4 Positioning public libraries for the future 49
4.5 Benefits of the Victorian Library 51
5 Next Steps 53
6 Appendix 54
1. Victorian Public Library Review Process Map 55
2. Consultation Report 58
3. Submissions and Contributions Report 76
4. Today’s Library Report 159
5. Future Trends Public Libraries Report 164
6. Opportunities – Collaboration and Procurement Report 171
Foreword
This report contains the findings of the first stage of the landmark review of public libraries being undertaken by the Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC), and the recommendations that have subsequently been developed by the MAC.
Over recent decades, the Victorian community has changed dramatically: from the industries we work in, to the number of children we are having, the languages spoken at home and the places we are living. This rapid rate of change looks set to continue in the coming years.
Throughout these changes, Victoria’s public libraries have remained vital community assets that, along with society, have evolved and adapted over time.
Historically, the public library was a repository of knowledge and a home for books. The traditional public library of yesterday can conjure up images of a staid place. The public library of today, however, is a very different story.
What was once a place of silent solitude, housing rows of books and little more, is now a hub of community engagement and support. It is a portal to knowledge, books and information, but it is also so much more. It is a vibrant and inviting place where people gather, share ideas, learn and play.
Today’s public library brings people together; it removes isolation; it fosters social inclusion; and it creates strong and connected communities. It plays a pivotal role in lifelong learning, literacy and knowledge creation and, through this, will contribute to the development of self-reliant communities.
Victoria’s population is growing and changing. It is a multicultural community with people from more than 200 countries calling Victoria home. It has an ageing population and is experiencing a shift towards higher-density living, while some rural populations are in decline. Adapting to this, and emerging technology, requires a strategic, long-term approach. A strong and resilient Victorian community will be essential, and the public library of the future will be a cornerstone to achieving this.
To effectively position public libraries for the future, the MAC has developed a recommended future approach, the Victorian Library.
Bringing all public libraries together as a virtual Victorian Library will enable the Victorian Government and local government to achieve improved outcomes for the community in partnership, while maintaining local responsiveness.
It is a concept that ensures the ongoing viability and relevance of public libraries. It recognises that the digital shift fundamentally changes how people think about public libraries and their role in local communities. It emphasises the collaboration that is needed to ensure public libraries deliver best value for money and positive community outcomes.
Realising a virtual Victorian Library will mean councils, library services and the Victorian Government will be better placed to respond to the future challenges and changes the sector may face.
Through collaboration and leadership, the public library sector will be able to respond to new trends in library usage and emerging technology with a unified and consistent strategy across the state. At the same time, this will enable a greater capacity for local government to respond to the unique needs of their local community.
The Victorian Library approach will position public libraries to more effectively adapt to the future, whatever it may hold, and will ensure they remain vibrant community assets that meet local community needs.
Together with my fellow MAC members, I look forward to consulting widely during the second stage of this review, which will start in early 2013, to effectively position our public libraries for the future.
David Morris MP
Chair, Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries
Executive Summary
“Growing up, the local library was a safe and educational place which produced a love of words. I hope this tradition continues.”
Community contribution
“Wyndham City Council congratulates the State Government for undertaking a Ministerial Advisory (Council) Review into public libraries in Victoria and prompting a broad range of discussion on the provision of public library services in the future.”
Wyndham City Council
Overview
The Victorian Government is committed to providing support to local councils to ensure public libraries remain a vibrant, modern and effective resource for all Victorians.
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) was given the task to comprehensively review the role of Victorian public libraries, including services and funding arrangements.
The review is being conducted in two stages over a two-year period. The first stage started in January 2012 and has assessed the current use of public libraries and their future needs. The second stage will start in early 2013 and will review costs and prioritisation of library projects and programs. The review is due to be completed by the end of 2013.
Stage one of the review included an extensive consultation process with the local government and public library sector, and the community, to facilitate input into the future of public libraries in Victoria.
The consultation process comprised two components: a public submission process and consultation sessions with councils, regional library corporations and the Victorian community.
Key findings
Public libraries provide a wide range of services that are valued by the community. However, there is disparity between libraries in Victoria, with some unable (for a variety of reasons) to offer the same suite or standard of services as others.
The environment in which public libraries operate is changing rapidly. It is challenging for public library services to keep pace with changes in technology and the phasing out of obsolescent technology. Identifying emerging trends and changes can be difficult, as is anticipating the impact on library usage, particularly for smaller services. There is an ad hoc approach to implementing new services. For example, some public libraries are providing commercially acquired ebooks while others are not.
The future of public library services is set to be exciting and innovative. To ensure public libraries remain valued and treasured public institutions, they must continue to adapt and evolve. At the same time, public libraries must continue to deliver high-quality services that meet the needs of their communities. It is important that public libraries position themselves to adequately embrace and meet the challenges of the future.
The MAC has considered the comprehensive information gathered during stage one of the review and included in this report.
The MAC concluded that the public library sector needs to increase collaboration and take a unified, strategic approach if it is to effectively adapt to the future and remain relevant in a globalised, digital world.
The MAC believes all Victorians should have access to high-quality public library services, regardless of where they live.
Following on from this, the MAC developed a proposed approach for tomorrow’s library in Victoria - the Victorian Library.
The Victorian Library
Public libraries are at the heart of the community. They provide a non-judgemental, safe space that develops strong and connected communities, supports a reading culture and improves quality of life. They are accessible to all, regardless of age, race, sex, religion, nationality, language or social status.
As envisaged by the MAC, the Victorian Library will be a seamless network of library services that will enable access to information, resources and services to all Victorians, either in person or online and in a variety of formats, regardless of where they live, work, study or relax.
To achieve the Victorian Library, the implementation of interrelated initiatives will be required at either a statewide or local level. The maximum benefit of each initiative will only be fully realised when considered as a package of initiatives that are interrelated and as such, each initiative should not be assessed individually.
The MAC recommendation is that the initiatives are implemented as a suite of strategies that, together, will deliver significant, positive outcomes for the community, public libraries, local government and the Victorian Government.
Statewide initiatives and responsibilities
These interrelated statewide initiatives are designed to take responsibility for tasks that are replicated across the state, thereby removing the burden of process-driven and back-of-house duties and delivering increased value for money and improved services. This will enable individual public library services to spend more time focusing on what they do best – shaping library services to the unique needs of the local community.
• Increase accessibility to a quality statewide collection developed and owned by local government.
• Establish a statewide languages other than English (LOTE) collection.
• Improve access to the statewide interlibrary loan service.
• Expand the statewide courier system to more efficiently deliver interlibrary loan requests.
• Develop a common platform for digital material consisting of two parts: access to downloadable ebooks and eresources and digitised local history and heritage material.
• Establish a single library management system.
• Investigate best value collection procurement options.
• Establish common processing and cataloguing practices.
• Deliver shelf-ready material directly to branches.
• Install RFID readers at all public library services and tag all items in the statewide collection.
• Develop one library card with local branding.
• Develop a single discovery layer and integrated content management system.
• Develop a Victorian Library app.
• Establish a Victorian Library social media presence.
• Investigate central procurement options for hardware (computers, tablets, eresources) and other services.
Develop a statewide marketing strategy.
Local initiatives will be where local decision making is required to respond to local community needs and priorities and will differ from community to community. Local initiatives will require local knowledge and interaction and should remain a local responsibility, but can and should be supported by statewide leadership and collaboration.
• Make staffing decisions based on local community and service needs.
• Develop a staff training framework that is specific to the needs of individual services and investigate possible collaboration opportunities.
• Where appropriate, recruit and utilise volunteers to support the delivery of local public library services based on local community needs.
• Share knowledge and continue to assist the community in sourcing and evaluating information.
• Plan and design public library services including size and location, based on local community needs.
• Consider environmentally sustainable design and other principles alongside other local capital works needs.
• Evaluate co-location partnership opportunities and community hub models in line with local community needs and sustainable management.
• Continue to develop programs and outreach services that respond to the needs of the local community and increase lifelong learning opportunities.
• Develop a digital literacy framework and programs specific to the needs of the local community.
• Develop strategies to maximise the benefits of high-speed Internet access.
Benefits of the Victorian Library
The Victorian Library means a person could walk into any public library, anywhere in the state, to use the services and borrow from the collection.
For the community, the Victorian Library means:
• one library card to use at any public library anywhere in Victoria
• getting access to every book and resource available in Victoria
• borrowing a book from one library and returning it to any other library in Victoria
• downloading ebooks and eresources from one easy-to-use and fast online portal
• finding what you want quickly and easily using one simple search engine
• interacting with the library anytime anywhere with mobile apps and social media.
The Victorian Library would enable local government to have a greater focus on local community needs and would deliver increased value for money and better library services to the community through statewide collaboration.
For local government, the Victorian Library means:
• getting more for your money
• better library systems without the burden of ongoing maintenance and upgrades
• freeing up of resources to focus on the local community, enabling greater lifelong learning opportunities and improved community outcomes
• realising the borderless library across Victoria
• improved library services for the local community
• increased awareness of council library services in the community
• a partnership agreement formalising state and local responsibilities and funding models.
The Victorian Library means the Victorian Government could get better value from its investment and deliver a better library service to every person in Victoria.
For the Victorian Government, the Victorian Library means:
• improved economies of scale and efficiencies across Victoria
• delivering an improved service to the community and achieving equity in access across Victoria
• delivering defined community outcomes from investments through tied funding
• a partnership agreement formalising state and local responsibilities and funding models
• a funding framework that enables effective decision-making and swift responses to future trends and changing community needs.
Positioning public libraries for the future
The Victorian Library is a concept that ensures the ongoing viability and relevance of public libraries. It recognises that the digital shift fundamentally changes how people think of libraries and their role in local communities. It emphasises the collaboration that is needed to ensure libraries deliver best value for money and positive community outcomes.
It positions the sector to be responsive and successful into the future.
New issues and challenges will arise relating to service delivery, processes and back-of-house tasks that will require solutions. The Victorian Library will enable the early identification of these emerging issues and challenges at a statewide level and will ensure the sector is positioned to quickly and effectively respond.
Partnership agreement
The Victorian Library provides a new, relevant and future-focused goal for state and local governments to achieve in partnership. This partnership could be formalised with an agreement outlining the responsibilities and funding commitment of each sphere of government. The agreement should be for a specified period of time to support effective strategic planning and to ensure all key stakeholders and the community are assured of the future of public libraries in Victoria.
Next steps
Stage two of the review will start in early 2013. A stage two discussion paper will be released to provide the opportunity for the sector and key stakeholders to respond to the Victorian Library concept and future funding model propositions.
As in stage one, extensive consultation will take place with local government, public libraries and the community to ensure everyone has the opportunity to shape the future of Victorian public libraries.
3. Tomorrow’s Library Review
[pic]
3.1 The review
3.2 Today’s library
3.3 The changing environment
3.4 Future trends
3.5 Submissions and contributions
3.6 Tomorrow’s library
3.1 The review
“The volume, relevance and currency of library collections are critical to the success of library services. Quality collections are core to the provision of a range of services to local communities.”
Greater Geelong City Council
“The Libraries provide a range of programs that are to enhance literacy, facilitate lifelong learning, civic participation and build cultural understanding and social connections in the community.”
Greater Dandenong City Council
Introduction
The Victorian Government is committed to providing support to local government to ensure public libraries remain a vibrant, modern and effective resource for all Victorians. This commitment has been consolidated through such programs as the Living Libraries Infrastructure program, the Premiers’ Reading Challenge Book Fund and the Public Libraries Funding program.
The Minister for Local Government, The Hon. Jeanette Powell MP, re-established the Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) on 4 August 2011 and, for the first time, created it as a bi-partisan committee.
The MAC is chaired by the Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Mr David Morris MP.
The MAC comprises:
• a representative of the Liberal Party who must be a member of Parliament and will be the Chair
• a representative of the Labor Party who must be a member of Parliament and will be the Deputy Chair
• a representative of the National Party who must be a member of Parliament
• a representative of the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) who must be an elected official
• a representative of the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA) who must be an elected official
• a representative of Local Government Professionals (LGPro)
• two representatives of the Public Libraries Victoria Network (PLVN), one of whom must be a representative of a library that is a member of the Swift Library Consortium
• the State Librarian/CEO of the State Library of Victoria
• a representative from the Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD)
• a representative from a metropolitan single-council library service
• a representative from a metropolitan regional library service
• a representative from a regional/rural single-council library service
• a representative from a regional/rural regional library service
• an Executive Officer to the MAC is provided by Local Government Victoria (DPCD).
MAC Members As at November 2012[pic]
David Morris MP (Chair)
Member for Mornington Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government
Peter Crisp MP
Member for Mildura
Mandi Stewart
Former Mayor, Horsham Rural City Council
Victorian Local Governance Association representative
Cr Rod Fyffe
City of Greater Bendigo Councillor
Municipal Association of Victoria representative
Dennis Hovenden
Frankston City Council CEO
LGPro representative
Joanne Duncan MP (Deputy Chair)
Member for Macedon
John Murrell
West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation CEO
Public Libraries Victoria Network representative
Christine Mackenzie
Yarra Plenty Regional Library Corporation CEO
Public Libraries Victoria Network representative
Sue Roberts
State Library of Victoria CEO
John Bennie
City of Greater Dandenong CEO
Cr Sharon Ellis
Whitehorse City Councillor
Judith O’Farrell
Former Campaspe Shire Councillor
Patti Manolis
Geelong Regional Library Corporation CEO
Colin Morrison
Director, Governance and Funding Programs, Local Government Victoria, DPCD representative
Dan Harper
MAC Executive Officer, Local Government Victoria (DPCD)
Overview
The MAC was given the task to comprehensively review the role of Victorian public libraries, including services and funding arrangements.
The MAC has committed to the development of a future-focused and forward-thinking strategic plan for Victorian public libraries that includes:
• a review and analysis of the current public library services provided to the Victorian community within the national and international context
• key strategic directions for Victorian public library services to guide the development and funding of those services into the future
• a costed implementation plan to deliver priority public library projects and services
• a robust government funding framework to provide positive support for the delivery of public library services across the state.
The terms of reference for the review were formally endorsed by Cabinet in 2011. The review includes assessment and consideration of:
a) the relevant future services, directions and trends that will lead to changes in the provision and delivery of library services, such as emerging technologies, ebooks, telephony, Internet, partnership arrangements and the increasing role of libraries as community spaces, and changing community needs
b) the services currently provided by libraries in Victoria and a comparison to those provided in other Australian states and territories
c) procurement practices and opportunities for standardisation of operations including borderless libraries and interlibrary operations
d) an analysis of the sustainability and diversity of library services
e) the aggregate level of funding and funding accountability provided by the three tiers of government to support public library services including analysis of other jurisdictions
f) the efficiency and effectiveness of specific purpose funding of public library services which includes the question of tied or untied library funding to councils
g) the appropriate level of recurrent funding and capital contribution necessary to support the operation of public libraries including opportunities to engage with private and philanthropic sector support.
Significant research into Victoria’s public library services and their role in the Victorian community has been undertaken by several statewide projects and research in the past decade. This work provides critical information about the sector and its position within the national and international context.
In 2005, the former MAC adopted a vision and strategic directions for Victorian public library services; these have guided Victorian Government funding priorities and other arrangements for those services since.
Review process
The review is being conducted in two stages over a two-year period. The first stage started in January 2012 and has assessed the current use of public libraries in Victoria and their future needs. The second stage will start in early 2013 and will review costs and prioritisation of library projects and programs. The review is due to be completed by the end of 2013.
Stage one included an extensive consultation process with local government, the public library sector and the community to facilitate their contribution to shaping the future of public libraries in Victoria.
The consultation process comprised two components: a public submission process and consultation sessions with councils, regional library corporations and the Victorian community.
A paper, Tomorrow’s Library, was developed to enable stakeholders and the community to have the opportunity to contribute to the development of a future-focused and forward-thinking plan for public libraries through the submission process.
The paper had two components. The first was a formal discussion paper to be used as a basis for respondents to provide formal submissions and was aimed at councils, regional library corporations and key sector stakeholders. The second component was a one page community contribution paper that sought comment from the community on the aspects of library provision that most affected them.
The Victorian Public Library Review Process Map (Appendix 1) provides explanations of each element undertaken during the first stage of the review.
Two key reports have been produced as a part of stage one and are provided in full in Appendix 2 and 3. The Consultation Report is a summary of the consultation undertaken by the Chair and Deputy Chair of the MAC with councils, regional library corporations and the public. The Submissions and Contributions Report provides a general overview of the submission process and a summary of the key issues raised in the full submissions (primarily from councils, regional library corporations and peak bodies) and the community contributions (primarily from members of the public).
An additional three reports were produced during stage one. They are:
• Today’s Library Report – outlines the current state of Victorian public library services
• Future Trends Public Libraries Report – provides the future directions and trends that will influence, challenge and provide opportunities for public library services
• Opportunities – Collaboration and Procurement Report – explores potential opportunities for the sector, as identified from the submissions and consultations, to work more collaboratively.
The executive summaries of each of these reports are provided in Appendix 4, 5 and 6.
These reports informed the MAC recommendations contained in this report.
3.2 Today’s library
“Libraries provide a community space that is non-intrusive, non-commercial and non-judgemental. More and more often in our busy lives, the library represents a space that allows the individual to take time out and think.”
Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
“I love visiting the library as it is a community hub and an inspiring place to spend time.”
Community contribution
Today’s library
Victoria’s public libraries are operated by local councils, who provide the majority of funding. The Victorian Government provides additional operational funding and grants through the Department of Planning and Community Development.
In Victoria, there are 38 single-council library services and 12 regional library corporations (comprising two or more councils), delivering services from 180 static branches across the state. In addition, 28 mobile libraries operate across Victoria stopping at 379 sites. Vision Australia also provides a library service for vision impaired Victorians.
Victorian public libraries spend the highest proportion of their operational budgets on the workforce and, in 2011–12, a total of 1687 equivalent full-time staff were employed. Of those employed, 632 held degree qualifications and 258 held diploma qualifications that were specifically used in their position.
There are around 1.1 million active library members in Victoria, including just over 300,000 new members who joined during 2011–12.
Victorian public libraries opened their doors for almost 12,000 hours per week and were visited more than 27 million times last financial year. Metropolitan public libraries serve an average of 34,500 people per year compared with 10,200 people served in non-metropolitan public libraries.
More than 51 million loans occurred in 2011–12 from Victorian public library collections, which comprise around 9.1 million items including print, audio-visual and electronic formats. This is equivalent to around 1.6 collection items per capita. Of these items, just over 500,000 are in languages other than English (LOTE).
More than half a million items were borrowed via interlibrary loans last financial year.
Victorian public library services manage their own physical library collections using a mixture of collaborative purchasing arrangements and individual arrangements with suppliers.
Library users can check out items themselves using self-service systems at 66 Victorian public library branches where radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology is installed, primarily in metropolitan library services.
Victorian public libraries have eresource collections that contain around 170,000 items, including ebooks, electronic database subscriptions and elearning resources.
During the last financial year, almost 300,000 ebooks were downloaded, a significant jump from just over 19,000 downloaded the previous year. Just over two million searches were conducted on electronic databases and around 900,000 elearning sessions took place.
There are 2218 public PC Internet terminals in Victorian public libraries (2011–12), 182 more than were available in 2010 –11, and these were booked over three million times and used for more than two million hours. In addition, around 1.3 million wireless sessions took place, more than double the 515,000 sessions that took place in 2010 –11.
Victorian public libraries deliver a diverse range of programs including homework clubs, Internet training, iPad training and home library services. Story Time is the most universally delivered program, offered by the majority of public library services. Around 1.7 million individuals attended programs in Victorian public libraries last financial year and volunteers assisted in the delivery of more than 900 programs. In total, more than 120,000 voluntary hours were contributed to public libraries in Victoria in 2011–12.
A number of public library services are co-located with other community service organisations. The most common services to be co-located with public library services are maternal and child health and child care services.
Library buildings range considerably in size; around 47% have less than 500sqm of floor space and 10% are larger than 1500sqm.
Increasingly, library users are engaging with library services online. Around 58% of Victorian public library services have a Facebook page and around 46% have a Twitter profile. Some public library services have also developed mobile apps.
The MAC conclusion
Public libraries in Victoria provide a wide range of services that are valued by the community. However, there is disparity between libraries, with some unable (for a variety of reasons) to offer the same suite or standard of services as others. The MAC believes all Victorians should have access to high-quality public library services, regardless of where they live.
Statistics are from:
Annual Survey of Victorian Public Libraries 2011-2012 and 2010-2011, Public Libraries Victoria Network
Report on the Current State of Public Libraries, SGS Economics and Planning
3.3 The changing environment
“Social change predicted over the next decade suggests that increasing numbers of those in the workforce working from home as well as isolated older adults in the community will use their local library as a place for accessing information, community interaction and as a place of belonging.”
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
“Technological change is resulting in a proliferation of information, new forms of media, and new means of accessing written material. Many of these changes have occurred rapidly and their consequences are hard to predict broadly across society. The ability to predict how these changes will affect government services, such as libraries, is even more difficult.”
Municipal Association of Victoria
The changing environment
Public libraries need to continually adapt and evolve to meet the needs of their local communities in what is a changing environment. As new technologies emerge, or changes in society occur, public libraries must alter their practices to ensure services remain relevant and valued.
Over the past 10 years, a number of statistics and key indicators point to a change in the way the community is using public libraries.
Loans per capita have decreased from 9.5 to 8.82, which coincides with a fall in visits to public library branches over the same period from 5.11 visits per capita to 4.82 visits per capita.
This change in usage is also reflected in a decrease in public library membership in Victoria, from more than 50% of the population to approximately 44% in 2011 – 12. Around 1.1 million are active members, those who borrowed an item, used electronic resources or used public library computers or wi-fi services during the year.
Although there has been a slight decrease in loans and membership, there has been an increase in the use of other, relatively new services that have been developed by public libraries to respond to changing community needs. This is particularly evident in the increased provision of, and community use of, technology in the library.
The changes seen in public library usage are reflective of new and emerging trends in the wider community.
Technology improvements, increased affordability of ereaders and high-speed broadband are rapidly increasing the number of ebooks purchased each year in Australia.
According to the report Cover to cover: A market analysis of the Australian book industry, commissioned by the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research and undertaken by PwC, approximately $35 million worth of ebooks were purchased in Australia in 2010. This accounted for 1.5% of the total value of books sales. The growth in this market is high, with estimates that in 2014 ebook sales will have a total value of at least $150 million and possibly up to $700 million.
This is comparable to international trends, with ebook sales in the United States expected to increase from $2.6 billion in 2010 to $4.8 billion in 2014. In the United Kingdom, ebook sales are expected to increase from $82 million to $500 million over the same period.
Driving this demand has been the rapid uptake of smart phones, ereaders and tablet computers. It is estimated that more than 12 million Australians use smart phones, according to research conducted by Telsyte, with that number expected to grow to approximately 20 million by 2016.
Telsyte estimates that the Australian media tablet market grew 188% year-on-year in the first half of 2012 and it expects more than 2.3 million units will be sold by the end of 2012. It is estimated that more than half the population will be using a media tablet by 2016.
The MAC conclusion
The environment in which public libraries operate is changing rapidly. It is challenging for public library services to keep pace with changes in technology and the phasing out of obsolescent technology. Identifying emerging trends and changes can be difficult, as is anticipating the impact on library usage, particularly for smaller library services. There is an ad hoc approach to implementing new services. For example, some public libraries are providing commercially acquired ebooks while others are not. The MAC believes all Victorians should have access to high-quality public library services, regardless of where they live.
3.4 Future trends
“Despite the evolution of services which libraries have seen in recent years, library services will continue to change more, possibly at an even greater rate over the next decade than the last, given the current rate of technological advances and growth of information resources and devices. There is a clear expectation on libraries to continue to be progressive, while still providing all of the vital traditional services; an acknowledgement of the social value of libraries in enhancing the wellbeing and confidence of our communities; and a strong move in developing libraries to provide the community hub or ‘Third Place’ for our societies...”
Gannawarra Shire Council
“Libraries will continue to be vital parts of their communities, supporting lifelong learning and literacy, fulfilling recreational needs of the community and being a meeting place for all sections of the population.”
High Country Library Corporation
Future trends
The Future Trends Public Libraries Report identifies that public libraries have traditionally fulfilled their purpose of providing universal access to information via a content management and distribution role. However, in the future, advances in technology, education levels, and personal wealth, may reduce the need for such a role.
The report described two possible future scenarios driven by differing social needs.
In the first scenario, there is an emergence of post-materialistic values, an increasing environmental awareness and activism, and the continuing influence of technology.
There are economic challenges posed by a transformation from a material economy to a service and experience-oriented economy, the globalisation of trade, news and information, and the ageing population.
In the second scenario, there is a persistence of materialistic values, a growing irrelevance and distrust of traditional ‘gatekeepers’, as well as the continuing influence of technology.
There are economic challenges posed by a transformation to a virtual economy in a globally competitive and resource-constrained world. There is an increasing social awareness and activism in response to growing environmental challenges, and the population segment that is aged continues to grow.
There are key differences and similarities between the two scenarios, as described in Figure 1. Both scenarios provide opportunities for public libraries to become creative spaces or community spaces.
Creative Library
In this scenario, the rising social need is around creativity as more and more people seek the skills and resources to develop and express their creativity – “Help me to create”. Hence, the future opportunity for public libraries is to evolve towards becoming the creative library.
In the creative library, the public library becomes the community’s central hub for shared learning and creativity, offering the products, services, programs and activities that facilitate collaboration and creative development.
In essence, a creative public library in 2030 is:
• an active learning centre
• a community arts studio
• a brain gymnasium
• a collaborative work space.
A successful and relevant creative public library in 2030 offers a range of services and programs that promote creative expression and collaboration, including:
• workshops to facilitate individual and group artistic development, including music, pottery, storytelling, poetry, drawing, writing, painting, sketching, media, etc.
• creative spaces for collaborative ‘jamming’
• studios for recording and editing content
• business spaces for local telecommuters
• physical book collections
• eresources
• language and literacy programs for all age groups.
Community Library
The rising social need in this scenario relates to how information is consumed. As opposed to the passive consumption that takes place in libraries today, people in this scenario are seeking more active learning opportunities. Hence, public libraries have the opportunity to become the community library, providing the classes, workshops and training to meet their community’s learning needs.
In the community library, the prominent social needs are for a sense of community connection and lifelong learning, and the public library fulfils these needs via its position as the people’s place – the community space.
In this scenario, the public library facilitates community connection and learning as a meeting place for people to gather, share and learn.
In essence, a community public library in 2030 is:
• a gathering place
• a learning centre (a ‘brain gymnasium’)
• a repository, documenter and disseminator of local knowledge
• an exhibitor of local creativity
• a local business hub.
In 2030, a successful and relevant community public library delivers programs and activities with a learning focus and takes a ‘cradle-to-grave’ approach, targeting all demographics and socio-economic groups, and extending the penetration of library usage across the entire community.
It is a learning village, offering a range of services and programs that promote lifelong learning and social connection, including:
• literacy programs
• learning programs
• community programs
• documenting, warehousing and disseminating local history, culture and knowledge
• social spaces
• business centres for local telecommuters
• physical book collections
• eresources
• quiet spaces
• information services
• outreach services.
The MAC conclusion
The future of public library services in Victoria is set to be exciting and innovative. To ensure public libraries remain valued and treasured public institutions, they must continue to adapt and evolve. At the same time, public libraries must continue to deliver high-quality services that meet the needs of their communities. It is important that public libraries position themselves to adequately embrace and meet the challenges of the future. The MAC believes all Victorians should have access to high-quality public library services, regardless of where they live.
3.5 Submissions and contributions
“It’s wonderful to be able to walk into such a welcoming, well-resourced building and know that you have access to everything that is there.”
Community contribution
“....public libraries are an essential community service and we welcome the opportunity to provide a brief response to the discussion.”
Municipal Association of Victoria
Overview
The MAC has undertaken extensive consultation with local government, key stakeholders and the community during the review. More than 1500 formal submissions and community contributions were received.
The formal submissions provided an insight into the challenges and opportunities public libraries face, both now and in the future. These challenges ranged from service-specific issues to those that will affect the entire sector. The key issues that were raised under each section in the discussion paper (collections, resources and programs; library buildings; technology; and service delivery) were discussed in submissions. In addition, respondents provided an overview of the external environment and the landscape in which library services are operating.
A number of key external factors were identified as changing the environment in which public libraries operate and that are affecting the library sector across all areas. These factors are outside of the control of the public library sector and, as such, library services are being forced to adapt to new environments.
These factors include:
• low literacy
• changing demographics
• socio-economic issues
• increased expectations or changing community needs
• difficulty in servicing rural and regional areas.
Lifelong learning was discussed in most submissions and generally underpins public library planning.
Several submissions suggested that statewide solutions and support were critical in dealing with many of the challenges. Sometimes these were listed against specific issues, such as a statewide library management system, or articulated as a general request for more assistance or solutions to be provided at a statewide level.
The submissions identified several challenges facing libraries against the four areas identified in the Tomorrow’s Library discussion paper. Outlined on the following pages are the challenges identified in the formal submissions and a short summary of the issues associated with each.
Collections, programs and resources
“The key issues are: The changing nature of collections and resources and requirement to create and provide digital content. Current trends in local, national and international publishing trends for physical and electronic items as well as copyright and digital rights management issues.”
Boroondara City Council
Respondents primarily agreed with the challenges listed in the Tomorrow’s Library discussion paper.
Collections in both electronic and print form were viewed as an integral part of the library. After staffing costs, the purchasing of collections was the next biggest expense for many public library services.
Balancing demand between print and digital publications was difficult. The ever-changing and complex eresources market was highlighted as a particular issue, with individual public library services experiencing difficulty in dealing with publishers and digital copyright laws. The provision of languages other than English (LOTE) material was an ongoing challenge. It can be difficult to source quality LOTE materials, expensive to procure, and challenging to manage demand.
Procurement in general was identified as an area where statewide support could be beneficial to public library services in achieving savings and efficiencies, and acquiring shelf-ready material.
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) was viewed as positive, particularly where it freed staff from repetitive processing tasks and allowed them to move to more customer-focused roles.
The provision of programs and outreach services was vital in helping public libraries interact with their community. Often demand for programs and outreach was in excess of what the library service could provide, either due to space, financial or staffing limitations.
|Issue | Summary |
|Collections: investment, standards and|Providing suitable materials for increased accessibility (for example audio or large |
|quality |print) |
| |Dealing with obsolescent technology |
| |Procurement of material |
| |Shelf-ready material |
| |Statewide standards |
|Eresources |Maintaining print collections versus digital formats |
| |Digital rights management |
| |Negotiating with the publishing industry |
| |Differing licence agreements and purchasing models |
|Languages other than English (LOTE) |Cost of a quality LOTE collection |
| |LOTE material in formats other than print |
| |Servicing small or emerging communities |
| |Desire for centralised LOTE collection and LOTE procurement |
|Programs |Increase in demand for programs |
| |Limited staff resources and/or space to deliver programs |
| |Collaboration and establishing partnerships with community organisations |
| |Focus on programs in library planning |
|Radio-frequency identification (RFID) |Reduces repetitive, process-driven work |
| |Increases staff capacity to interact with patrons |
| |Enables simplified process for sharing of collections |
| |Significant upfront and ongoing costs |
|Outreach |Demand for outreach services is increasing due to the ageing population |
| |Limited resources to meet demand |
Library buildings
“Not only must library buildings continue to offer the ability to be flexible and adaptable to many uses, there is a clear changed community expectation around service delivery. This includes the expectation of: function space, meeting rooms with state of the art IT capabilities, flexible learning spaces, IT hubs, quiet study spaces and event spaces.”
Darebin City Council
The need for modern, flexible and well-designed buildings was a strong theme in submissions. Several key considerations were identified as integral to creating the ideal public library building and meeting community expectations.
The design, size, layout and location of public library buildings was seen as important in enabling libraries to undertake a wide range of activities. There was a need for more floor space to meet rising community demand and changed technological requirements. There was support for statewide standards to help library services in design and construction phases.
Compliance with building codes, accessibility requirements and best practice environmentally sustainable demand was costly and, in some cases, such as heritage-listed buildings, difficult to meet.
Mobile libraries were viewed as important to small or isolated communities. They provide more than just a library service and often help to increase social inclusion.
The cost of delivering mobile services and building modern, large, flexible spaces was an issue, although there was recognition of the value of the Living Libraries Infrastructure program.
The importance of co-located facilities was highlighted, but more support to meet the challenges associated with this, including policy development, was desired.
|Issue |Summary |
|Spaces and standards |More floor space required |
| |Flexible space required |
| |Limited space for program use |
| |Limited space for technology |
| |Desire for adoption of statewide standards |
| |Maintaining/retrofitting heritage buildings |
|Compliance, codes and environmentally |Compliance with building codes and meeting accessibility requirements |
|sustainable design (ESD) |Increased community awareness and expectation of ESD |
| |Meeting building codes, accessibility requirements and ESD principles for older or |
| |heritage-listed buildings |
|Mobile library |Mobile libraries provide important services to small communities |
| |High costs and ongoing maintenance requirements |
| |Shift to smaller mobile library vehicles |
|Costs |Costs associated with the planning and development of library facilities increasing |
| |Assistance from the state and federal governments |
| |Importance of the Living Libraries Infrastructure program |
|Location and community hubs |Strong support for co-location |
| |Space constraints |
| |Difficulty managing the model |
| |Appropriate staffing |
| |Attracting appropriate services |
| |Lack of co-location policy |
| |Establishing libraries in the most appropriate physical location (i.e. near public |
| |transport hubs) |
Technology
“Technological change is resulting in a proliferation of information, new forms of media, and new means of accessing written material. Many of these changes have occurred rapidly and their consequences are hard to predict broadly across society. The ability to predict how these changes will affect government services, such as libraries, is even more difficult. This means that while the particular form of libraries in the future will be hard to predict with accuracy, it is likely to change driven by increasing technological change, along with services delivered by the National Broadband Network.”
Municipal Association of Victoria
“Council supports the notion of one collection, one website, one library card and one catalogue interface for all public library users. This will include the adoption of an RFID solution for the state, or a series of compatible solutions.”
Baw Baw Shire Council
Future technology was seen as one of the biggest challenges facing the public library sector. Library services were challenged by the need to keep abreast of the latest technology, the phasing out of old or obsolete technology, the provision and cost of technology and the risk of investing in the wrong technology.
Technology was affecting both internal processes and systems, and the way in which the community engaged with the public library.
A consortium approach to back-of-house systems such as library management systems, interlibrary loans and websites might reduce costs, improve the quality of the service and enable library services to focus on meeting the needs of their community.
New technologies might also affect the way public libraries operate and engage with their customers, including the increased use of social media and the continued uptake of mobile technologies. The National Broadband Network would provide opportunities for public libraries, but it is early in the rollout and many were unsure of what the impact would be on their service and their community. One possible consequence of new technology was a growing digital divide, disadvantaging customers who could not afford or access technology.
It was expected that the community would continue to utilise technology and would expect the public library to meet its needs. There was an increasing expectation from patrons that librarians were technology experts and could provide technological assistance and content for a range of personal devices.
|Issue |Summary |
|Library management systems (LMS) and |A major investment from councils |
|interlibrary loans |Some LMS are old or outdated |
| |Consortium or statewide library management system suggested |
| |Swift and LibraryLink Victoria increases access to collections |
| |Courier costs associated with interlibrary loans are high |
| |Interlibrary loans enables wider access to LOTE materials |
| |Interlibrary loans may present collection management difficulties |
|Virtual library |The public library website is fast becoming a new library branch – the virtual library |
| |Community now expects the virtual library to be accessible 24/7 |
| |Some old or outdated |
| |Requires a significant investment from council |
| |Need to be mobile optimised |
| |Integrated search tool and discovery layer |
|High-speed broadband – National |Key factor to be considered by public library services |
|Broadband Network (NBN) |Impact of the NBN not yet clear, making planning difficult |
| |Opportunity for public libraries to improve services |
| |Public libraries should play an integral part in its rollout |
| |If it is unaffordable, the digital divide will become a greater issue |
|Technology in the library |New technology is changing the way public library services operate |
| |Difficult for library services to keep abreast of technological change |
| |New and mobile technology has led to increased community demand |
| |Development of mobile apps |
| |Social media |
| |Digital divide between those people who can access the latest technology and those who |
| |are unable to due to cost or availability |
| |Escalating costs of providing a range of technologies |
| |Digitisation of collections important |
|Community use of technology |Support patrons using a variety of platforms and devices |
| |Appropriate space with access to power supplies |
| |Slow, limited or no access to the Internet at home is an issue |
| |Digital literacy |
Service delivery
“Challenges for service delivery include issues around the workforce, library courses, changes in demographics and hard to reach users. Our workforce is ageing and current library courses are unsuitable for the work now undertaken in libraries. New recruits often do not have the necessary skills to work in a library or have a misconception of what they will be doing once they work in a library. We therefore often need to recruit from other professions and, while necessary, this will ultimately undermine the value of library qualifications. Remuneration is also relatively low compared to other professions and as a result it can be hard to attract the best and the brightest into libraries.”
Stonnington City Council
Service delivery was a major focus for public libraries, in particular the impact of changing community needs, the evolving nature of public libraries and the way in which the workforce needed to adapt and respond to this.
The role of the librarian was changing, now having a greater focus on customer service. This had resulted in a change in the way staff members operated and the skills required to fulfil roles. Tertiary courses had not kept up with the changing roles of librarians, making it increasingly difficult to attract suitably qualified staff. Training of existing staff could be difficult due to a lack of suitable courses, limited budgets and the impact on services of staff being away from their duties. Volunteers remained important to libraries.
The concept of equity in public library services across municipalities, and the state, was important to ensure all members of the community had access to the same base level of service.
Sections of the community, such as young people, were hard to attract to the library. The need to engage this group was identified, but some public library services lacked the resources or the appropriate skills to do so. Public libraries felt the need to be authoritative information providers to assist customers to navigate the increasingly large and complex range of information sources available.
|Issue |Summary |
|Staffing |Maintaining a sustainable workforce is a challenge |
| |Tertiary courses are becoming less relevant |
| |Changing roles due to new and emerging technologies and a greater focus on customer |
| |service |
| |Employing specialist roles and offering competitive salary packages are difficult |
| |Attracting suitably qualified staff |
| |Attracting young people to the industry |
| |Ageing workforce |
| |More staff overall |
|Training |Limited staff resources and time |
| |Training in emerging areas of technology, such as social media, is difficult to source |
| |Particularly difficult for libraries in rural and regional areas where the distance from |
| |training is often significant |
| |Statewide industry training desired |
|Volunteers |Attracting volunteers |
| |Providing meaningful volunteering opportunities |
| |Increasing demand |
| |Growing importance |
|Equity in access and models of |Patrons should receive the same level of access to public library services |
|service |Growing expectation for public libraries to operate after hours and on weekends |
| |Differing library models of service in place |
|Hard-to-reach users |Attracting young people and hard-to-reach users to the library is difficult|
| |Greater outreach to increase engagement |
| |Statewide marketing |
|Authoritative information providers |Independent and trusted information providers |
| |Assisting the community to access, navigate and evaluate relevant information |
Community contributions
The community contributions received during the consultation and submission process echoed many of the challenges raised in the formal submissions.
Community members liked their local public library. They were passionate about the staff members who worked there and the services they provided. The desire for more staff, available to assist with queries and searching, was a common theme.
Almost all community contributions said they wanted to see more materials; more books, more DVDs, more eresources, more magazines and more books in community languages. They wanted access to more programs, especially technology-based programs, and more events such as author talks and seminars.
They appreciated that they could access the latest technology at the public library, but wanted to see this expanded to include a wider range of devices such as Apple Mac computers, tablets, ereaders and mobile devices. The free Internet access was appreciated but longer session times would be of benefit. The community wanted to be able to access the library online, 24/7, to search catalogues and databases, place reservations and download ebooks and journals.
The community wanted the buildings to be bigger with more space to study or sit quietly and read. Dedicated meeting rooms, community spaces and facilities, such as café, were positively viewed. The fact that libraries were welcoming, clean and pleasant places to visit was valued by the community.
The community wanted libraries to remain open longer and include weekends and evenings, as well as more static libraries and more mobile library stops. The community was overwhelmingly positive about public libraries and wanted them to remain a free service, and to be expanded, updated and improved wherever possible.
“Reading is a skill you will never regret learning, and libraries are the place where that is fostered and nurtured and grown. Librarians are amazingly knowledgeable and are always ready to help.”
“I’d like that the library could have more Ebooks, and more other language kind of books and magazines, for our country is a multicultural one.”
“An extensive e-library that allows patrons to use their logins and passwords to borrow books online.”
“It’s a community hub - whenever I visit (usually once a week) I can see a range of people in the library & family groups especially on Saturdays.”
“In the future, we could have multipurpose room and children playing area and coffee bar, and so on.”
“I would like the library to have more outdoor spaces, more visible from the outside, I would like to see the activity in the library, I would like to see other community and learning activities around the library, interactive video screens and video conference facilities that allow virtual interaction.”
“The computer system is fantastic and I wish to see it continue to keep up to date as technology advances.”
“Need more laptop plug in ports - that is, pods of single-person desks with a power point per desk that allow a person to plug their laptop in and access the wireless.”
“Our local library is an inviting space with very helpful people. The librarians make a significant contribution to the library being a knowledge hub.”
“I want to see my library become more of a community hub. The place where you go to get information on a range of things, not just in book form. I also see the library as the logical place for information from government departments.”
“I think libraries are great. Reading is the most wonderful skill to have - it can take you to other countries or other worlds, back in time or into the future, teach you about cultures far away, or help you learn about something right in front of you.”
“I like that they are free, everyone has equal access to them. I love the idea of people learning, exploring and learning for themselves in an enjoyable way.”
“I truly believe that all the different library networks in Melbourne can be unified into one coherent ‘Melbourne Library’. I have more library cards than dollar notes in my wallet.”
“The library is such a wonderful community resource, it’s so valuable to people from all walks of life. It creates a haven, a free space, a community place to catch up with others. A place to get knowledge and learn at your own pace.”
“Libraries are pleasure palaces and should be loved and cared for.”
3.6 Tomorrow’s library
“Tomorrow’s Library offers an exciting opportunity for Victorian public libraries to articulate their challenges and opportunities and outline the assistance required over the next 5-10 years.”
Yarra Plenty Regional Library
“The nature, style and configuration of future library services will continue to change due to a change in community needs and changes in technology.”
City of Greater Dandenong
Tomorrow’s library
The MAC has considered the comprehensive information gathered during stage one of the review and included in this report; in particular, the themes, issues and trends that were identified during the extensive consultation with local government, the public library sector and the community, and during the submission process.
Stage one has illustrated the public library landscape in Victoria today and highlighted the emerging trends and potential challenges coming tomorrow. Through this, it became clear that individual library services are adapting to tomorrow’s library landscape at varying rates and levels.
For example, some public library services have developed their own mobile apps and are using discovery layers with integrated content management systems to improve their online presence. Others simply cannot, either because of budget constraints, skill gaps or a lack of time.
The MAC concluded that the public library sector needs to increase collaboration and take a unified, strategic approach if it is to effectively adapt to the future and remain a relevant community asset in a globalised, digital world.
The MAC believes all Victorians should have access to high-quality public library services, regardless of where they live.
Following on from this, the MAC developed a proposed approach for tomorrow’s library in Victoria – the Victorian Library.
The following section of this report articulates what the Victorian Library is and what it will achieve for local government, public libraries and the community.
This forms the MAC’s recommendations for the first stage of this review and will form the basis of stage two of the review, due to start in early 2013.
4. The Victorian Library
4.1 What is the Victorian Library?
4.2 Creating the Victorian Library
4.3 Initiatives and responsibilities
4.4 Positioning public libraries for the future
4.5 Benefits of the Victorian Library
4.1 What is the Victorian Library?
“As our communities continue to demand, use and visit library services both physically and virtually, the need is clear, and in response to such we must ensure a united and affirmative approach in ensuring the future of libraries.”
Gannawarra Shire Council
“We support the notion of one collection, one website, one library card and one catalogue interface for all public library users across the state.”
West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
The Victorian Library
“The public library, the local gateway to knowledge, provides a basic condition for lifelong learning, independent decision-making and cultural development of the individual and social groups.”
UNESCO, Public Library Manifesto
Public libraries are at the heart of the community. They provide a non-judgemental, safe space that develops strong and connected communities, supports a reading culture and improves quality of life. They are accessible to all, regardless of age, race, sex, religion, nationality, language or social status.
The Victorian Library will be a seamless network of library services that will enable access to information, resources and services to all Victorians, either in person or online and in a variety of formats, regardless of where they live, work, study or relax.
The Victorian Library will enhance literacy skills, essential to creating a prosperous state with active individuals who are able to participate socially and economically in community life. It will support educational and cultural pursuits and will improve the health and wellbeing of the community.
The Victorian Library will create informed, inspired and connected communities supported by trusted information brokers delivering innovative programs and services in an ever-evolving digital information age. It will support the preservation of cultural heritage and increase community accessibility through its digital library.
The Victorian Library will promote education and development through literacy, numeracy and digital literacy programs and lifelong learning opportunities. This will be enhanced by effective partnerships and collaborations with educational institutions and local community agencies.
The Victorian Library will stimulate imagination and nurture a love of reading and learning, improving early childhood development and encouraging both parents and their children to participate in lifelong learning. It will provide space for activities and creative development and will encourage curiosity and discovery.
The Victorian Library will celebrate diversity in all its forms and will provide quality resources in languages other than English to support culturally and linguistically diverse communities, promoting social inclusion and community participation.
The Victorian Library will increasingly become the community hub, providing appropriate spaces for learning and activities. It will provide multipurpose facilities that meet local community needs and enhance opportunities for community building.
The Victorian Library will enhance community service delivery through regular sharing of knowledge, integrated planning, and effective management of resources and use of infrastructure.
The Victorian Library will look different in each community, shaped by local decision making. It will be reflective of unique, local community needs and priorities of today and will evolve to meet the changing needs of tomorrow.
The Victorian Library will be supported by high-quality shared systems and networks that will provide efficient and responsive access to information and resources, strengthening the capacity of individuals and the community.
The Victorian Library will facilitate efficiencies by maximising statewide collaboration and supporting local partnerships and networks, skill development and capacity building.
The Victorian Library will be ever-changing. It will continue to evolve, adapt and grow, responding to changing community needs and emerging trends. Regardless of what the future holds, the Victorian Library will continue to strengthen communities.
4.2 Creating the Victorian Library
The Victorian Library approach leads to several interrelated initiatives that will ensure a high standard and quality of service is experienced across the state, as well as delivering efficiencies and opportunities to public library services. These need to be undertaken at either a statewide or local level.
Determining responsibility:
A number of factors were assessed by the MAC to determine if a statewide approach would deliver improved outcomes to the community and public library services, or if the most effective outcomes would occur by remaining a local responsibility.
4.3 Initiatives and responsibilities
The maximum benefit of each of the Victorian Library initiatives will only be fully realised when they are considered as an interrelated package and as such, should not be assessed individually. The recommendation is that the initiatives be implemented as a suite of strategies that, together, will deliver significant, positive outcomes for the community, public libraries, local government and the Victorian Government.
Statewide focus
Statewide initiatives can be implemented collaboratively to deliver efficiencies, consistency and opportunities to Victorian public libraries. Statewide initiatives may be led by a statewide industry association, government body or public libraries working collaboratively.
The recommended interrelated statewide initiatives will remove the back-of-house, process-driven tasks that are replicated at every public library service. The initiatives will provide efficiencies in work practices or economies of scale by implementing streamlined systems and procedures across all library services and will remove the burden of mandatory compliance with legislative requirements and procurement regulations.
Expert guidance can be obtained for the delivery of the statewide initiatives, leading to improved outcomes. By implementing the statewide initiatives the sector will be better placed to respond quickly to challenges and changing technology and demand.
Importantly, undertaking initiatives at a statewide level will not mean public library services give up autonomy or control of their service. The statewide initiatives will act as ‘enablers’, as they will enable public library services to focus on what they do best – responding to the unique needs of their local community and developing new and innovative ways to create informed, connected communities.
Victorian Library statewide initiatives and responsibilities
The Victorian Library will facilitate easy, seamless access to the statewide collection of physical items through a central lending platform.
Collection items should be moved around at the request of public library members, either regionally or statewide, using the most efficient and environmentally friendly transport methods.
A statewide collection, owned and selected by local governments, should be implemented to ensure the community has access to high-quality resources, wherever they reside in Victoria. The collection will include physical items (print materials, DVDs, etc.) and digital materials (ebooks, digitised collections, etc.).
The Victorian Library should have a statewide languages other than English (LOTE) collection with material selected and held locally but shared across the state. A ‘floating collection’ should also be developed for areas that have small or emerging culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
The Victorian Library should develop a common platform for digital material that is accessible to all Victorians. It should comprise two parts:
• A consortia arrangement for selecting and procuring downloadable, commercially available ebooks and eresources for all.
• A digital library built on a common platform that includes local history and heritage materials.
A single library management system will enable the statewide collection to be easily tracked and managed at all times.
To ensure best value is obtained, a range of procurement options including centralised management and supplier-aided selection, should be investigated. The best solution should then be implemented across Victoria.
Common processing and cataloguing practices should be developed and shelf-ready material delivered directly to library branches. This will improve efficiency and ensure that popular materials reach library shelves quickly.
To reduce handling time for library staff conducting interlibrary loans and checking out/in materials, RFID tags should be placed on all items. New materials should have tags attached as part of the procurement process.
To provide all library services with RFID readers and scanners, central procurement should be investigated.
Library members need to be able to access the statewide collection easily. A single, locally branded, membership card should be implemented to enable members to borrow materials and use the facilities of any public library in Victoria.
A Victorian Library discovery layer that replaces the traditional functionality of the library’s online catalogue should be purchased, in conjunction with an integrated content management system that allows libraries to upload information relevant to their community quickly and easily.
Applications for smart phones and tablets are increasingly important in engaging all sections of the community. A Victorian Library application, or ‘app’, should be developed to: give access to the catalogue and the collection; provide information on local programs and events; and provide users with real-time information on where the closest public library is for items and activities.
Social media is being used by some public libraries to connect with users and potential users. A Victorian Library social media presence should be developed and managed to raise the profile of public libraries and enhance access to information and services.
Shared procurement of resources other than collection materials – such as computers, tablets, ereaders or even services – may lead to libraries saving money in their procurement. By inviting libraries to partner in a single tender, conducted centrally, the expertise and buying power could lead to better outcomes for public libraries.
Statewide marketing and promotion of both new services (such as the one library card) and current services offered by public libraries should be undertaken to attract new users and encourage existing members to visit more often.
Statewide initiatives and responsibilities summary
The interrelated statewide initiatives are designed to take responsibility for tasks that are replicated across the state removing the burden of process-driven and back-of-house duties and delivering increased value for money and improved services. This will enable individual public library services to spend more time focusing on what they do best – shaping library services to the unique needs of the local community. The maximum benefit of each of the initiatives will only be fully realised when they are implemented as a package, so they should not be assessed individually.
Statewide initiatives and responsibilities
• Increase accessibility to a quality statewide collection developed and owned by local government.
• Establish a statewide languages other than English (LOTE) collection.
• Improve access to the statewide interlibrary loan service.
• Expand the statewide courier system to more efficiently deliver interlibrary loan requests.
• Develop a common platform for digital material consisting of two parts: access to downloadable ebooks and eresources and digitised local history and heritage material.
• Establish a single library management system.
• Investigate best value collection procurement options.
• Establish common processing and cataloguing practices.
• Deliver shelf-ready material directly to branches.
• Install RFID readers at all public library services and tag all items in the statewide collection.
• Develop one library card with local branding.
• Develop a single discovery layer and integrated content management system.
• Develop a Victorian Library app.
• Establish a Victorian Library social media presence.
• Investigate central procurement options for hardware (computers, tablets, eresources) and other services.
• Develop a statewide marketing strategy.
Local focus
Local initiatives will be where local decision making is required to respond to local community needs and priorities and will differ from community to community. Local initiatives will require local knowledge and interaction and should remain a local responsibility, but can and should be supported by statewide leadership and collaboration.
Local initiatives will be undertaken differently in each location, depending on the unique characteristics of the local community. In some instances for some library services, no change from current practices will occur; in other instances, changed work practices may lead to improved outcomes. The initiatives and responsibilities outlined are not exhaustive of what individual public library services undertake.
It is envisaged that, with initiatives being undertaken at a statewide level, more time and resources can be allocated to local initiatives, leading to improved outcomes and services for the community.
The diversity of local communities requires local decision making and will mean the Victorian Library is different in each community and location.
Victorian Library local initiatives and responsibilities
The Victorian Library will be staffed by knowledgeable and skilled workers who are confident in delivering library services and responsible for providing lifelong learning opportunities.
Local circumstances such as library size, budget and priorities will determine staffing levels and composition. Increasingly, libraries will engage people with qualifications and experience in areas other than librarianship, based on local community needs.
As staffing should remain a local responsibility, so too should their training, learning and development needs. A collaborative approach to the types of training and skills required by public library staff could be developed to better support the local delivery of training.
Volunteers are vital to many library services and their skills and knowledge should be used in different ways, depending on the needs of the local community.
Public libraries will remain a trusted source for information and users will rely on their local library staff to provide accurate and reliable information. A collaborative approach to sourcing appropriate and reliable information could help staff to better provide authoritative content.
The Victorian Library will be made up of a network of vibrant community spaces that provide a safe and welcoming environment for people to come and learn, work, study and meet others. The decisions regarding design, size and location of library services should be made at a local level to reflect the needs of the local community. Decisions regarding environmentally sustainable design and other principles should be considered alongside other local capital works needs.
A Victorian guide, along the lines of the New South Wales State Library’s, People Places, could be developed to help local decision makers in planning and designing library buildings.
The role of the Victorian Library as a community hub will influence the future design and provision of library facilities. Local needs will determine appropriate co-locations and service partnerships; these could include neighbourhood houses, living and learning centres and other council services and facilities such as art galleries and sporting complexes.
Programs and outreach services will continue to be an important part of the Victorian Library. Each community will have differing needs shaping the types of programs offered and their frequency.
The Victorian Library should seek to ensure that the provision of technology keeps pace with community demand and expectations so that all Victorians are digitally literate and are able to perform their day-to-day transactions and interactions in an increasingly digital world.
Over the next 10 years, all Victorian library branches will be connected to the National Broadband Network. It will provide faster, more reliable broadband access to all Australian homes and businesses through a mix of three technologies: optic fibre, fixed wireless and next-generation satellite. Locally, each library should develop strategies to maximise the opportunities and benefits of high-speed Internet access.
Local initiatives and responsibilities
The initiatives and responsibilities outlined are not exhaustive of what individual public library services undertake. Rather, they are proposed strategies that may be undertaken where appropriate.
Local initiatives and responsibilities
• Make staffing decisions based on local community and service needs.
• Develop a staff training framework that is specific to the needs of individual services and investigate possible collaboration opportunities.
• Where appropriate, recruit and utilise volunteers to support the delivery of local public library services based on local community needs.
• Share knowledge and continue to assist the community in sourcing and evaluating information.
• Plan and design public library services including size and location, based on local community needs.
• Consider environmentally sustainable design and other principles alongside other local capital works needs.
• Evaluate co-location partnership opportunities and community hub models in line with local community needs and sustainable management.
• Continue to develop programs and outreach services that respond to the needs of the local community and increase lifelong learning opportunities.
• Develop a digital literacy framework and programs specific to the needs of the local community.
• Develop strategies to maximise the benefits of high-speed Internet access.
4.4 Positioning public libraries for the future
“Future libraries need to be constantly in touch with their customers and acutely aware of service and technology developments. Governments need to be also aware of these developments and where possible drive some of these initiatives across the state to ensure a coordinated and fairer approach is taken, not one that is totally driven by who has the ability to fund the service.”
Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“Libraries need to be flexible in their capacity to adopt new technologies and scan the horizon for future technologies and developments. Accessing opportunities through new technologies requires resources as does planning for obsolescence and decommissioning of out-dated technologies.”
Brimbank City Council
Positioning public libraries for the future
The Victorian Library is a concept that ensures the ongoing viability and relevance of public libraries in the state. It recognises that the digital shift fundamentally changes how people think of libraries and their role in local communities. It emphasises the collaboration that is needed to ensure libraries deliver best value for money and positive community outcomes.
Regardless of whether public libraries become community or creative spaces, the sector must be positioned to be responsive and successful in the future.
The two possible futures articulated in the Future Trends Public Libraries Report will require both statewide collaboration and local solutions. The Victorian Library approach establishes a framework for dealing with factors that will affect all services, while at the same time, allowing the flexibility of local decision making. It will enable public library professionals and local governments to focus on the changes in their local community without the burden or responsibility of identifying statewide solutions.
In the future, there will be new issues and challenges relating to back-of-house tasks, processes and service delivery that will require solutions. The Victorian Library will enable the early identification of these emerging issues and challenges at a statewide level and will ensure the sector is positioned to quickly and effectively respond. This will ensure all Victorians have access to high-quality public library services, regardless of where they live.
Partnership agreement
The Victorian Library provides a new, relevant and future-focused goal for state and local governments to achieve in partnership. This partnership could be formalised with an agreement between state and local governments outlining the responsibilities and funding commitment of each sphere of government. The agreement should be for a specified period of time to support effective strategic planning, and to ensure all key stakeholders and the community are assured of the future of public libraries in Victoria.
4.5 Benefits of the Victorian Library
The implementation of the suggested Victorian Library strategies should produce benefits for all key stakeholder groups.
The community – will the strategies provide positive outcomes for Victorians, improve the user experience and increase community engagement with libraries?
Local government – will the strategies increase the capacity of local government to service the community and enable them to develop strategies and programs to meet the unique needs of their community?
Victorian Government – will the strategies provide good value for money and a high return on investment through positive community outcomes that benefit all Victorians?
Benefits
The Victorian Library means a person could walk into any public library, anywhere in the state, to use the services and borrow from the collection.
For the community, the Victorian Library means:
• one library card to use at any public library anywhere in Victoria
• getting access to every book and resource available in Victoria
• borrowing a book from one library and returning it to any other library in Victoria
• downloading ebooks and eresources from one easy-to-use and fast online portal
• finding what you want quickly and easily using one simple search engine
• interacting with the library anytime, anywhere with mobile apps and social media.
The Victorian Library would enable local government to have a greater focus on local community needs and would deliver increased value for money and better library services to the community through statewide collaboration.
For local government, the Victorian Library means:
• getting more for your money
• better library systems without the burden of ongoing maintenance and upgrades
• freeing up of resources to focus on the local community, enabling greater lifelong learning opportunities and improved community outcomes
• realising the borderless library across Victoria
• improved library services for the local community
• increased awareness of council library services in the community
• a partnership agreement formalising state and local responsibilities and funding models.
The Victorian Library means the Victorian Government could get better value from its investment and deliver a better library service to every person in Victoria.
For the Victorian Government, the Victorian Library means:
• improved economies of scale and efficiencies across Victoria
• delivering an improved service to the community and achieving equity in access across Victoria
• delivering defined community outcomes from investments through tied funding
• a partnership agreement formalising state and local responsibilities and funding models
• a funding framework that enables effective decision-making and swift responses to future trends and changing community needs.
5. Next steps
The Victorian Library concept has been developed by the MAC during stage one of the landmark review of public libraries. This is a recommendation for a strategy to position Victorian public libraries for the future. It has not been endorsed by the State Government.
Stage two of the review will start in early 2013. A stage two discussion paper will be released to provide the opportunity for the sector and key stakeholders to respond to the Victorian Library concept and future funding model propositions.
As in stage one, extensive consultation will take place with local government, public libraries and the community to ensure everyone has the opportunity to shape the future of Victorian public libraries.
More information about stage two will be published at dpcd..au/tomorrows-library
6. Appendix
1. Victorian Public Library Review Process Map
2. Consultation Report
3. Submissions and Contributions Report
4. Today’s Library Report
5. Future Trends Public Libraries Report
6. Opportunities - Collaboration and Procurement Report
Appendix 1
Victorian Public Library Review Process Map
Stage 1 Commences
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) was re-established on 4 August 2011 by the Minister for Local Government, Jeanette Powell MP, and for the first time is a bi-partisan committee. The MAC has been tasked to comprehensively review the role of Victorian public libraries, including services and funding arrangements. The review will be conducted in two stages over a two year period from 2012 - 2013. Stage 1 commenced in January 2012.
1. Tomorrow’s Library Discussion Paper
A discussion paper to give stakeholders and the community an opportunity to input into the development of a future focused and forward thinking plan for Victorian public libraries. The paper had two components. The first was a formal document that could be used as the basis for full submissions and was aimed at councils, regional library corporations and key stakeholders. The second component was a one page community contribution paper that sought comment from the community on the aspects of library provision that most affected them. Copies of the full discussion paper and the community contribution paper can be found at dpcd..au/tomorrows-library
2. Consultations with Councils and the Community
An opportunity for councils, regional library corporations and the community to speak directly to the MAC. The Chair, Deputy Chair and representatives of the MAC spoke to more than 55 councils and all regional library corporations using the discussion paper as a basis for the conversations. Twelve roadshow events were held around Victoria (8 in Regional Victoria and 4 in Metropolitan Melbourne) where MAC representatives listened to the community using the community contribution paper as a basis for the conversations.
3. Submissions and Community Contributions
A consultation website was developed and facilitated the lodgement of submissions and community contributions. Councils, regional library corporations, and key stakeholders were able to upload full submissions based on the discussion paper. The community were able to provide contributions based on the community contribution paper. More than 1500 submissions and community contributions were received.
4. Consultation Report
A summary report on the consultations conducted by the Chair and Deputy Chair of MAC. This report provides a general overview of the consultation process, including a schedule of where the meetings were held and the councils and regional library corporations involved, as well as a summary of the key issues raised.
5. Submissions and Contributions Report
A summary report on the submissions and community contributions received. This report provides a general overview of the submission process and a summary of the key issues raised in the full submissions (primarily received from councils and regional library corporations) and a summary of the key issues raised in the community contributions (primarily from members of the public).
6. Today’s Library Report
A report which outlines the current state of Victorian public libraries including services, programs and operation, and a comparison of library services in other states of Australia. Information obtained from the Annual Survey of Public Libraries and a short survey of library managers forms part of this report. The results of the data collection and an information analysis are brought together into this succinct report.
7. Future Trends - Public Libraries Report
A report, in partnership with State Library of Victoria (SLV) and Public libraries Victoria Network (PLVN), on the future directions and trends which will influence, challenge and provide opportunities for Victorian public library services to deliver services that meet the community needs. The report is a component of the broader 2030 Report which seeks to answer the question, what is a public library in 2030?
8. Preliminary Summary
A summary of the reports to be presented to MAC that form the core output of Stage 1. The report will summarise the key findings of each of the following reports into a single document:
• Report on Consultations;
• Report on Submissions and Contributions;
• Today’s Library Report, and;
• Future Trends - Public Libraries 2030 Report.
9. Opportunities - Collaboration & Procurement Report
This report will look at opportunities for the library sector to operate more effectively and efficiently by working collaboratively either in a consortium or a partnership. The key areas for investigation will be identified from the Submissions, Consultation, Current and Future Trends Reports.
10. Supplementary Papers
A number of key issues will be identified throughout the Stage 1 process. Papers will be sourced, or written, that help to inform the MAC members of the current situation and the challenges associated with the issue to allow the members to make informed decisions on these issues.
11. MAC Consideration & Recommendations
MAC, with the aid of a professional facilitator, will work through the documents prepared to date to draw conclusions and make recommendations regarding the future of public libraries.
12. Stage 1 Report
The final report will build upon the Preliminary Summary and the MAC recommendations to give a complete overview of the first stage of the review. At this time the reports on the Consultations, Submissions and Contributions, Today’s Library and Future Trends - Public Libraries 2030 will also be published.
13. Presentations
A series of workshops will be held around Victoria for councils, regional library corporations and key stakeholders to explain the methodology behind the Stage 1 report and interim MAC recommendations.
Stage 2 Commences
Stage 2 commences in January 2013. Using the Stage 1 report and MAC recommendations, a discussion paper will be developed to inform further consultation with councils, regional library corporations and key stakeholders. More information about Stage 2 will be released at the end of Stage 1.
Appendix 2
Consultation Report
Contents
Executive summary 73
Introduction 74
Consultation sessions – councils and regional library corporations 75
Roadshow events – Victorian public consultations 77
Consultations 79
Introduction 80
Schedule 81
Consultation sessions – councils and regional library corporations 83
Overview 84
Collections, resources and programs 85 Investment in collections 85
Standards 85
Languages other than English (LOTE) 85
Procurement 85
Programs 86
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) 86
Outreach 86
Library buildings 87
Fit-for-purpose buildings 87
Standards 87
Compliance 87
Co-location of public library services with other services 87
Provision of other services 87
Technology 88
LibraryLink Victoria and Swift Library Consortium 88
Future technologies 88
Community use of technology 88
Service delivery 89
Workforce 89
Equity in access 89
Model of service 89
Operation of service 89
Demographic changes 89
Hard-to-reach users 89
Roadshow events – Victorian public consultations 91
Overview 92
Collections, resources and programs 93
Library buildings 93
Technology 93
Service delivery 93
Executive summary
Introduction
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) was re-established on 4 August 2011 by the Minister for Local Government, Jeanette Powell MP, and for the first time is a bi-partisan committee. The MAC was tasked to comprehensively review the role of Victorian public libraries, including services and funding arrangements. The review is being conducted in two stages over a two-year period; it started in January 2012 and is due to be completed by the end of 2013.
The review included an extensive consultation process with local government, the public library sector and the community to enable full input into the future of public libraries in Victoria.
The consultation process comprised two components: a public submission process and consultation sessions with councils, regional library corporations and the Victorian community.
A paper, Tomorrow’s Library, was developed to enable stakeholders and the community to contribute to the development of a future-focused and forward-thinking plan for Victorian public libraries through the submissions process.
The paper had two components. The first was a formal discussion paper to be used as a basis for respondents to provide formal submissions. It was aimed at councils, regional library corporations and key sector stakeholders. The second component was a one-page community contribution paper that sought comment from the community on the aspects of library provision that most affected them.
The Chair, Deputy Chair and other representatives of the MAC met with more than 55 councils and all 12 regional library corporations across Victoria during the consultation period.
In addition, 12 roadshow events were held at locations around Victoria where members of the public had the opportunity to meet with MAC representatives and provide their views on the future of public libraries. Eight roadshow events were held across rural and regional Victoria and four were held in metropolitan Melbourne.
The Tomorrow’s Library paper was used as the basis for discussions during the consultation sessions and roadshow events.
Consultation sessions councils and regional library corporations
A representative sample of councils and regional library corporations was selected for individual consultation sessions to discuss the challenges and issues facing public libraries in the future. These were well attended by mayors, chairs, councillors, chief executive officers, directors and library managers.
The consultation sessions were well received by councils and regional library corporations, with many expressing their gratitude to the MAC for taking the time to consult widely with local government and the library sector.
Outlined below is a summary of the issues and challenges raised during the consultation sessions with councils and regional library corporations.
Collections, resources and programs
Maintaining the relevance of the collection and ensuring it does not become old or outdated is a challenge for libraries. Ebooks present an ongoing challenge for library services. There are several different platforms (iPad, Kindle, Kobo, etc.) that each require different ebook formats, and publishers are either not providing content in electronic format to libraries or are limiting the number of times an ebook can be loaned. There is a need to maintain the balance between ebooks and traditional print formats. There was mixed reaction to statewide standards for collections.
Languages other than English (LOTE) material is more expensive to purchase than English language resources. The quality of material available varies and can be difficult to source in a variety of formats.
There has been a shift towards consortium or statewide procurement through the Municipal Association of Victoria and Procurement Australia, and towards purchasing shelf-ready items.
A wide variety of programs is offered by library services from the more traditional programs, such as Story Time, through to emerging programs, such as teaching older patrons to use new technology (smart phones, tablets, the Internet). Library services noted that programs are expensive to run, take up large amounts of staff time and can be limited by the availability of space. Outreach programs are well received and often reach people who may not normally use the library service.
Many libraries have implemented various radio-frequency identification (RFID) solutions. There is a general consensus that RFID works well at larger, busier library branches where considerable staff time can be saved. The cost of purchasing
RFID is a barrier to entry.
Library buildings
It’s important to provide high-quality library buildings that meet the needs of the local community. Flexible design in buildings is also important to enable a range of activities to take place and to cater for future possible uses.
People Places (public library building guidelines developed by the State Library of New South Wales) is used in Victoria as a guide for planning the size and spaces required in a library. It was suggested that, when undertaking capital projects, additional support from the Victorian Government, including the preparation of tender documents and design at a central level, would assist library services.
Meeting building codes has significantly increased the cost of building refurbishments, particularly for older buildings, and when constructing new library buildings. All services agree on the importance of the codes in ensuring libraries are accessible to all.
A wide range of options and co-location models were discussed during the consultations. It is clear that there is not one model suitable for every community. In some cases, councils and regional library corporations made the decision to operate a stand-alone library facility, believing it to be the best outcome for their community.
Some libraries offer services on behalf of council and other organisations, such as tourism information, bill payments, Centrelink and Medicare. The impact of delivering these services within the library needs to be considered on an individual basis.
Technology
LibraryLink Victoria and the Swift Library Consortium are viewed as good technological solutions to interlibrary loans. Several library services are hesitant to fully embrace interlibrary loans, because of the courier costs associated with them and the concern that they may be detrimental to their collection. Several councils want to see the Swift Library Consortium coverage increase across the state or a common library platform explored.
Several main themes were identified during discussions about technology, including: the cost of replacing obsolete equipment, the emergence of cloud technology, the development of apps for smart phones and tablets, the cost of software and hardware, and digitisation. The importance of the library website, the ‘virtual library’, was highlighted and the need for it to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Library services believe that future technology, and the opportunities the National Broadband Network will deliver, will allow them to offer services to the community in different ways.
The uptake of new technology in the community is having a direct impact on the way patrons interact with the library and the services and programs being delivered.
Service delivery
The library sector workforce is ageing and attracting young professionals is difficult. There is a gap between what is being taught in university and TAFE courses and the actual skills required for working in a modern library. Volunteers are an important part of the delivery of services in many areas.
Differences in the provision of library services exist across the state. There are a variety of models, ranging from large static library branches to smaller depots, mobile services, reading rooms and even small outdoor libraries.
Demographic changes within the community are creating challenges for library services. The ageing population is creating new demands; with more educated and demanding ‘Baby Boomers’ now reaching retirement, expectations of library services will continue to increase.
Some library services are delivering innovative programs to attract users such as teens and other hard-to-reach users.
Roadshow events – Victorian public consultations
More than 400 people attended the 12 roadshow events held across Victoria. Those who attended welcomed the opportunity to tell the MAC their experiences and hopes for libraries, now and in the future.
Victorians value their public libraries, as was demonstrated by the passion shown by those who attended. It is an important space for the community and, importantly, a safe place. The community wants public library services to remain free and accessible to all people.
Books are very important to the Victorian community. People spoke of their strong attachment to them, as well as the need for libraries to embrace ebooks and digital formats. The community wants more books in community languages and more large print books for the elderly and vision impaired.
Programs are popular with community members, who would like to see a wider range and a greater number offered.
The community wants more space and library buildings that are modern, comfortable and inviting. It wants spaces for quiet activities, homework or studying, programs, wi-fi use and for the community to meet. There is a need for libraries to provide spaces for both quiet and noisy activities.
Community members are embracing technology in libraries. They would like to see more computers (including Apple computers) and more training in the use of technology. They hope libraries will utilise future technology, such as the National Broadband Network, to the advantage of the community.
Community members would like to see libraries open for more hours and on more days of the week. They hold the staff and volunteers in high regard and value the help they receive in accessing information.
Consultations
Introduction
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) was re-established on 4 August 2011 by the Minister for Local Government, Jeanette Powell MP, and for the first time is a bi-partisan committee. The MAC was tasked to comprehensively review the role of Victorian public libraries, including services and funding arrangements. The review is being conducted in two stages over a two-year period; it started in January 2012 and is due to be completed by the end of 2013.
The review included an extensive consultation process with local government, the public library sector and the community to enable full input into the future of public libraries in Victoria.
The consultation process comprised two components: a public submission process and consultation sessions with councils, regional library corporations and the Victorian community.
A paper, Tomorrow’s Library, was developed to enable stakeholders and the community to contribute to the development of a future-focused and forward-thinking plan for Victorian public libraries through the submissions process.
The paper had two components. The first was a formal discussion paper to be used as a basis for respondents to provide formal submissions. It was aimed at councils, regional library corporations and key sector stakeholders. The second component was a one-page community contribution paper that sought comment from the community on the aspects of library provision that most affected them.
Copies of the full discussion paper and the community contribution paper can be found at dpcd..au/tomorrows-library.
The Chair, Deputy Chair and other representatives of the MAC met with more than 55 councils and all 12 regional library corporations across Victoria during the consultation period.
In addition, 12 roadshow events were held at locations around Victoria where members of the public had the opportunity to meet with MAC representatives and provide their views on the future of public libraries. Eight roadshow events were held across rural and regional Victoria and four were held in metropolitan Melbourne.
The Tomorrow’s Library paper was used as the basis for discussions during the consultation sessions.
This report provides a summary of the issues and challenges discussed during the consultation sessions with councils and regional library corporations, and during the roadshow events that took place throughout March, April and May 201
Schedule
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries endorsed a strategy at its February 2012 meeting that included consultations with councils, regional library corporations and the community through consultation sessions and roadshow events across Victoria.
Below is the schedule of consultation sessions with councils and regional library corporations.
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Date Council/Regional Library
5 March Goldfields Regional Library Corporation and member councils
6 March Swan Hill Rural City Council
6 March Wimmera Regional Library Corporation and member councils
7 March Pyrenees Shire Council
7 March Ballarat City Council
19 March Geelong Regional Library Corporation and member councils
19 March Melton Shire Council
2 April Moonee Valley City Council
3 April Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation and member councils
3 April Yarra City Council
4 April Eastern Regional Library Corporation and member councils
4 April Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation and member councils
10 April Upper Murray Regional Library Corporation and member councils
11 April High Country Library Corporation and member councils
11 April Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation and member councils
12 April Mitchell Shire Council
12 April Yarra Plenty Regional Library Corporation and member councils
23 April Glen Eira City Council
23 April Greater Dandenong City Council
24 April East Gippsland Shire Council
24 April Wellington Shire Council
24 April West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation and member councils
26 April Corangamite Regional Library Corporation and member councils
14 May Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
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Below is the schedule and location of the roadshow events.
[pic]
Date Location
5 March Bendigo Library
6 March Horsham Library (Mibus Centre)
7 March Ballarat Library
19 March Geelong Library
2 April Moonee Ponds Library
3 April Box Hill Library
10 April Wodonga Library (Civic Centre)
11 April Shepparton Library
12 April Ivanhoe Library
23 April Springvale Library
24 April Sale Library
26 April Warrnambool Library
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Consultation sessions – councils and regional library corporations
Overview
A representative sample of councils and regional library corporations were selected for individual consultation sessions to discuss the challenges and issues facing public libraries in the future.
The Chair, Deputy Chair and other representatives of the Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) met with more than 55 councils and all 12 regional library corporations across Victoria during the consultation period. These were well attended by mayors, chairs, councillors, chief executive officers, directors and library managers.
The consultation sessions were well received by councils and regional library corporations, with many expressing their gratitude to the MAC for taking the time to consult widely with local government and the library sector.
The Tomorrow’s Library discussion paper was used as the basis for discussions during the consultation sessions with councils and regional library corporations. Each council or regional library corporation was invited to discuss the key issues they wanted to convey to the MAC.
Some councils and regional library corporations used the consultation sessions as an opportunity to deliver a formal presentation to the MAC while others were discussion-based sessions. In each case, the MAC was pleased with the level of thought, planning and preparation the councils and regional library corporations had done prior to the consultation session.
The discussions that took place highlighted the diverse range of services offered by libraries, as well as the differences between library services. Several key themes emerged from the sessions, including: rapid technological change, particularly in relation to ebooks and the National Broadband Network (NBN); the ongoing demand for printed books; the increased expectations of library patrons; and the changes to traditional library services.
Overall, there was agreement that technology will change the way libraries operate in the future, but that the traditional book will remain important for many years to come. It was clear that libraries provide a wide variety of services that are valued by their communities.
Outlined in the following pages is a summary of the issues and challenges raised during the consultation sessions with councils and regional library corporations.
Collections, resources and programs
Investment in collections
The library collection is a vital component of any public library. The community has high expectations of the services and items available at its library. Maintaining the relevance of the collection and ensuring it does not become old or outdated remains a challenge for libraries. Ensuring the collection is relevant and appealing to all sections of the community, in particular teenagers and other hard-to-reach groups, is also difficult.
In addition to conventional collections, ebooks present an ongoing challenge for library services. Several different platforms (iPad, Kindle, Kobo, etc.) require different ebook formats and maintaining a collection that includes all formats is difficult and costly. There are ongoing issues and challenges with publishers who are either not providing content in electronic format to libraries or are limiting the number of times an ebook can be loaned. There is a need to maintain the balance between ebooks and traditional print formats, as many people still prefer printed books or do not have access to ereaders. It was suggested that libraries may lend ereaders as well as ebooks to patrons.
Standards
There were mixed reactions to statewide standards for collections. Some library services like having statewide standards to aspire to, or benchmark themselves against. Other services believe statewide standards do not accurately reflect the quality of a library service or its collection.
Languages other than English (LOTE)
Languages other than English (LOTE) material is more expensive to purchase than English-language resources. The quality of material available varies and it can be difficult to source material in a variety of formats (such as electronic or audio) for some languages. Servicing small culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in a local area can be difficult, as is responding to the needs of emerging CALD communities.
Procurement
There has been a shift towards consortium or statewide procurement through the MAV and Procurement Australia, and towards purchasing shelf-ready items.
Some large library services indicated that cost savings were minimal for them. There is a saving, however, in staff time and resources by avoiding the tender process, including preparation of tender documents, as well as gaining the assurance of meeting legislative requirements.
Some library services have chosen not to take part in consortium procurement.
Programs
Programs have been a growing area over the past several years, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to meet demand for some types of programs. A wide variety of programs is offered by library services, from the more traditional programs, such as Story Time, through to emerging programs, such as teaching older patrons how to use new technology (i.e. smart phones, tablets, the Internet).
Programs are delivered both within the library as well as at external sites such as schools and nursing homes. Some programs are delivered in conjunction with other groups such as neighbourhood houses and other not-for-profit organisations.
Many library services noted that programs are expensive to run, take up large amounts of staff time, and can be limited by the availability of space.
Radio-frequency identification (RFID)
Many libraries have implemented various radio-frequency identification (RFID) solutions. Some use sorting machines and automated self-checkouts while others only tag books to allow faster checkout by staff. There is a general consensus that RFID works well at larger, busier library branches where considerable staff time can be saved. The cost of purchasing RFID is a barrier to entry for many library services, particularly small library services, and some indicated that there is limited benefit.
Outreach
A wide range of outreach programs is delivered including Story Time at hardware stores, visits to nursing homes and providing books to commuters at railway stations. Outreach programs are well received and often reach people who may not normally use the library service. Budget constraints and staff availability restrict the number of outreach activities that can be offered.
Library buildings
Fit-for-purpose buildings
It’s important to provide high-quality library buildings that meet the needs of the local community. Additional space is now required to run the range of programs that libraries deliver, or would like to deliver, as well as to cater for the range of uses the community now expects. There is a trend towards the development of larger, more expensive buildings, demonstrated by several metropolitan councils planning libraries in excess of $20 million. Rural and regional councils also discussed the increased cost of providing appropriate library buildings.
Flexible design in buildings is important to enable a range of activities to take place and to cater for future possible uses.
The Victorian Government Living Libraries Infrastructure program is valuable, although it was indicated that the maximum grant is not enough to support some projects. The lack of suitable buildings and spaces was highlighted as a barrier to expanding the library or providing additional services to the community.
Standards
People Places (public library building guidelines developed by the State Library of New South Wales) is used in Victoria as a guide for planning the size and spaces required in a library. While most indicated this is adequate, it was suggested that when undertaking capital projects, additional support from the Victorian Government, including the preparation of tender documents and design at a central level, would assist library services to leverage the experience and knowledge of others.
Compliance
Meeting building codes has significantly increased the cost of building refurbishments, particularly for older buildings, and when constructing new library buildings. All services agree on the importance of the codes in ensuring libraries are accessible to all.
Co-location of public library services with other services
Co-location is increasing. Several library services are operating, or are planning to operate, in buildings shared with other services. A wide range of options and co-location models were discussed during the consultations. It is clear that there is not one model suitable for every community. In some cases, councils and regional library corporations made the decision to operate a stand-alone library facility, believing it to be the best outcome for their community.
Provision of other services
Some libraries offer services on behalf of council and other organisations, such as tourism information, bill payments, Centrelink and Medicare. Similar to co-location, there is not one model or type of service that is suitable for every community. The impact of delivering these services within the library needs to be considered on an individual basis (i.e. undertaking dog registration on behalf of council will lead to peaks at dog re-registration time).
Technology
LibraryLink Victoria and the Swift Library Consortium
LibraryLink Victoria and the Swift Library Consortium are viewed as good technological solutions to interlibrary loans. There are varying opinions on the impact of the costs associated with interlibrary loans and the benefits derived. Several library services are hesitant to fully embrace interlibrary loans because of the courier costs associated with them and the concern that they may be detrimental to their collection.
Several councils want to see the Swift Library Consortium coverage increase across the state or a common library platform explored.
Future technologies
Rapidly changing technology is a critical challenge for public library services, both now and in the future. It is difficult for library services to keep abreast of new technology and it is expensive to provide or install new technology. It was noted that community expectations have increased and libraries are expected to have the latest technology available.
Several main themes were identified during discussions about technology, including: the cost of replacing obsolete equipment, the emergence of cloud technology, the development of apps for smart phones and tablets, the cost of software and hardware, and digitisation.
In particular, the importance of the library website, the ‘virtual library’, was highlighted and the need for it to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This requires expensive IT support and infrastructure.
Library services believe that future technology, and the opportunities the National Broadband Network will deliver, will allow them to offer services to the community in different ways.
Community use of technology
The uptake of new technology in the community is having a direct impact on the way patrons interact with their library and the services and programs being delivered. The implementation of mobile-optimised websites, electronic catalogues and the development of applications for portable and mobile devices is being explored.
The take-up of new technology, such as tablets, is limited by availability and cost, and may lead to inequity in access and a growing digital divide.
Service delivery
Workforce
The library sector workforce is ageing and attracting young professionals is difficult. There is a gap between what is being taught in university and TAFE courses and the actual skills required for working in a modern library. There is a shift to more specialised, customer-focused roles in libraries, away from the traditional librarian.
Volunteers are an important part of the delivery of services in many areas. However, their use varies, with some undertaking small tasks and others undertaking roles that are similar to paid employees.
Occupational health and safety issues, in particular staff working alone, were raised by several library services.
Equity in access
Differences in the provision of library services exist across the state. Many library services use the Annual Survey of Victorian Libraries to benchmark their performance against comparable services, aiming to ensure the community has access to the same base service across municipalities.
Model of service
A variety of models of service exist in the library sector, ranging from large static library branches to smaller depots, mobile services, reading rooms and even small outdoor libraries. In each case the model being used was selected to meet the needs of the local community, although the cost of the model was also a determining factor. Many smaller shires find it difficult to service small or remote communities, while metropolitan councils find it difficult to build large modern libraries due to the limited availability of greenfield sites.
Several libraries operate outreach programs, such as home library services. Partnerships with schools and local not-for-profit organisations are also being explored.
There are significant variations in opening hours across Victoria. Many services would like to extend hours but are unable to due to budgetary constraints.
Operation of service
There are three main models of service in Victoria: regional library corporations, single service municipalities and fee for service. There is support for all models from councils.
Demographic changes
Demographic changes within the community are creating challenges for library services. The ageing population is creating new demands; with more educated and demanding ‘Baby Boomers’ now reaching retirement, expectations of library services will continue to increase.
Increased and more diverse migration has increased demand for LOTE material, but it is challenging to provide a quality range of LOTE material.
Hard-to-reach users
Innovative programs are being delivered to attract users such as teens and other hard-to-reach users. Libraries believe that new technology, such as tablets, may increase library usage by some groups that previously had not engaged.
Roadshow events – Victorian public consultations
Overview
Twelve roadshow events were held at locations around Victoria where members of the public had the opportunity to meet with members of the Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) and provide their views on the future of public libraries. Eight roadshow events were held across rural and regional Victoria and four were held in metropolitan Melbourne.
More than 400 people attended the 12 roadshow events across Victoria. At each event a local library professional facilitated the session with the Chair of the MAC and assisted in leading the discussion. The community contribution paper was used as the basis for the discussions and those who attended welcomed the opportunity to tell the MAC their experiences and hopes for libraries, now and in the future.
Victorians value their public libraries, as was demonstrated by the passion shown by those who attended. It is an important space for the community and, importantly, a safe place. The community wants public library services to remain free and accessible to all people.
Outlined on the following page is a summary of the comments and issues raised during the roadshow events with Victorian communities.
Collections, resources and programs
Books are very important to the Victorian community. People spoke of their strong attachment to them as well as the need for libraries to embrace ebooks and digital formats. They want to ensure that the book of their choice is accessible in their preferred format, but they do not want a transition to ebooks to compromise the quality of print collections.
The community wants more books in community languages and more large print books for the elderly and vision impaired. One suggestion was to provide tablets or ereaders that enabled different text sizes.
The community does not like charges for interlibrary loans or other services, such as email.
Programs are popular with community members, who would like to see a wider range and a greater number offered. It was suggested these could be run in conjunction with local groups such as the University of the Third Age (U3A) or neighbourhood houses.
Library buildings
The community wants more space and library buildings that are modern, comfortable and inviting. They want spaces for quiet activities, homework or studying, programs, wi-fi use and for the community to meet. There is a need for libraries to provide spaces for both quiet and noisy activities. The library building should be flexible so meeting rooms and facilities can be accessed after hours.
There was demand for services, such as cafes, to attract more people to the library. Notably, co-location with other council services was popular, but there was general concern regarding multi-use libraries shared with schools.
Technology
Community members are embracing technology in libraries. They would like to see more computers (including Apple computers) and more training in the use of technology.
They believe libraries should provide ereaders, particularly to those who may not be able to afford their own, and would also like to be able to borrow equipment from libraries, such as
data projectors.
They hope libraries will utilise future technology, such as the National Broadband Network, to the advantage of the community.
Service delivery
Community members would like to see libraries open for more hours and on more days of the week. They hold the staff and volunteers in high regard and value the help they receive in accessing information. They would like to see more outreach programs and services for the elderly.
Appendix 3
Submissions and Contributions Report
Contents
Executive summary 78
Introduction 78
Formal submissions 78
Community contributions 81
Submissions and community contributions 83
Introduction 83
Methodology 84
Formal submissions 86
Overview 86
Collections, resources and programs 88
Collection – investment, standards, quality 89
Eresources 92
Languages other than English (LOTE) 94
Programs 96
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) 98
Outreach 100
Library buildings 101
Spaces and standards 102
Compliance, codes and environmentally sustainable design (ESD) 105
Mobile libraries 107
Cost 109
Location and community hubs 111
Technology 114
Library management system and interlibrary loans 115
Websites 120
National Broadband Network (NBN) 122
Technology in the library 124
Community use of technology 1341
Service delivery 134
Staffing 135
Training 140
Volunteers 143
Equity in access and models of service 145
Hard-to-reach users 147
Authoritative information providers 148
Community contributions 149
Executive summary
Introduction
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) was re-established on 4 August 2011 by the Minister for Local Government, Jeanette Powell MP, and for the first time is a bi-partisan committee. The MAC was tasked to comprehensively review the role of Victorian public libraries, including services and funding arrangements. The review is being conducted in two stages over a two-year period; it started in January 2012 and is due to be completed by the end of 2013.
The review included an extensive consultation process with local government, the public library sector and the community, to enable full input into the future of public libraries in Victoria.
The consultation process comprised two components: a public submission process and consultation sessions with councils, regional library corporations and the Victorian community.
A paper, Tomorrow’s Library, was developed to enable stakeholders and the community to contribute to the development of a future-focused and forward-thinking plan for Victorian public libraries through the submission process.
The paper had two components. The first was a formal discussion paper to be used as a basis for respondents to provide formal submissions. It was aimed at councils, regional library corporations and key sector stakeholders. The second component was a one-page community contribution paper that sought comment from the community on the aspects of library provision that most affected them.
The Tomorrow’s Library paper was released in February 2012 and submissions were open until 31 May 2012.
A consultation website was developed and facilitated the lodgement of submissions and community contributions. Councils, regional library corporations and key stakeholders were able to upload formal submissions based on the discussion paper. Community members were able to provide contributions based on the community contribution paper.
More than 1500 formal submissions and community contributions were received.
Formal submissions
The formal submissions provided an insight into the challenges and opportunities libraries face, both now and in the future. The key issues raised under each section in the discussion paper (collections, resources and programs; library buildings; technology; and service delivery) were discussed in submissions. In addition to these issues, respondents provided an overview of the external environment and the landscape in which library services are operating. Several key external factors were identified as changing the environment in which libraries operate and are affecting the library sector across all areas.
These factors are outside of the control of the library sector and, as such, library services are being forced to adapt to new environments. These factors include:
• low literacy
• changing demographics
• socioeconomic issues
• increased expectations or changing community needs
• difficulty in servicing rural and regional areas.
Lifelong learning was discussed in most submissions and generally underpins library services.
Several submissions suggested that statewide solutions and support were critical in dealing with many of the challenges facing libraries. Sometimes these were listed against specific issues, such as a statewide library management system, or articulated as a general request for more assistance or solutions to be provided at a statewide level.
The submissions identified 22 challenges facing libraries against the four key areas identified in the Tomorrow’s Library discussion paper. This report provides a full and detailed summary of each challenge, including direct quotes from the submissions.
Outlined below are the challenges identified in the formal submissions and a short summary of the issues associated with each.
Collections, programs and resources
Respondents primarily agreed with the challenges listed in the Tomorrow’s Library discussion paper. The most commonly discussed issues under collections, resources and programs are:
• collections – investment, standards and quality
• eresources
• languages other than English (LOTE)
• programs
• radio-frequency identification (RFID)
• outreach.
Collections in both electronic and print form are viewed as an integral part of the library. After staffing costs, the purchasing of collections is the next biggest expense for many library services. Balancing demand between print and digital publications is difficult for libraries. The ever-changing and complex eresources market is highlighted, with library services experiencing difficulty in dealing with publishers and digital copyright laws. The provision of languages other than English (LOTE) material is an ongoing challenge. It can be difficult to source quality resource materials, expensive to procure, and challenging to manage demand.
Procurement in general is identified as an area where statewide support can be beneficial to library services in achieving savings and efficiencies, and acquiring shelf-ready material.
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is viewed as positive, particularly where it frees up staff from repetitive processing tasks and allows them to move to customer-focused roles.
The provision of programs and outreach services is vital in helping libraries interact with their communities. Often demand for programs and outreach is in excess of what the library can provide, either due to space, financial or staffing limitations.
Library buildings
The need for modern, flexible and well-designed buildings is a strong theme in submissions. Several key considerations are identified as integral to creating the ideal library building and meeting community expectations.
They are:
• spaces and standards
• compliance, codes and environmentally sustainable design (ESD)
• mobile libraries
• costs
• location and community hubs.
The design, size, layout and location of library buildings are important in enabling libraries to undertake a wide range of activities. There is a need for more floor space to meet rising community demand and changed technological requirements. There is support for statewide standards to help library services in design and construction phases.
Compliance with building codes, accessibility requirements and best practice ESD is costly and in some cases, such as heritage-listed buildings, difficult to meet.
Mobile libraries are important to small or isolated communities. They can provide more than just a library service, often helping to increase social inclusion.
The cost of delivering mobile services and building modern, large, flexible spaces are issues, although there is recognition of the value of the Living Libraries Infrastructure program.
The importance of co-located facilities is highlighted, but more support to meet the challenges associated with this, including policy development, is requested.
Technology
Future technology is one of the biggest challenges facing the public library sector. Library services are challenged by the need to keep abreast of the latest technology, the phasing out of old or obsolete technology, the provision and cost of technology and the risk of investing in the wrong technology.
Technological change is affecting both internal processes and systems and the way in which the community engages with the library.
Technology was discussed in relation to:
• library management systems and interlibrary loans
• websites
• the National Broadband Network (NBN)
• technology in the library
• community use of technology.
A consortium approach to back-of-house services such as library management systems, interlibrary loans and websites may reduce costs, improve the quality of the service and enable libraries to focus on meeting the needs of their community. By undertaking these activities on a collaborative basis, additional benefits, such as one library card and a statewide collection, can be achieved.
New technologies may also affect on the way libraries operate and engage with their customers, including increased use of social media and the continued uptake of mobile technologies. The NBN will provide opportunities for libraries, but it is early in the rollout and many libraries are unsure of what the impact will be on their service and their community. One possible consequence of new technology is a growing digital divide that disadvantages customers who cannot afford or access technology.
The community will continue to utilise technology and expects the library to meet its needs. There is an increasing expectation from patrons that librarians are technology experts and can provide technological assistance and content for a range of personal devices.
Service delivery
Service delivery is a major focus for public libraries, in particular the impact of changing community needs, the evolving nature of libraries and the way in which the workforce needs to adapt and respond to this. Several areas are highlighted as key components of effective service delivery.
They are:
• staffing
• training
• volunteers
• equity in access and models of service
• hard-to-reach users
• authoritative information providers.
The role of the librarian is changing, with a greater focus on customer service. This has resulted in a change in the way staff members operate and the skills required to fulfil their roles. Tertiary courses have not kept up with the changing roles of librarians, and therefore it is increasingly difficult to attract suitably qualified people. Training of existing staff can be difficult due to a lack of suitable courses, limited budgets and the impact on services of having staff away to attend training. Volunteers remain important to libraries.
The concept of equity in services across municipalities and the state is important to ensure all members of the community have access to the same base level of service. Sections of the community, such as young people, are hard to attract to a library. Libraries identify the need to engage this group but lack the resources or skills to do so. Libraries see the need to be authoritative information providers to assist customers to navigate the increasingly large and complex sources of information available.
Community contributions
The community contributions received echoed many of the challenges raised in the formal submissions.
Community members like their local library. They are passionate about the staff who work there and the services provided. The desire for more staff, available to assist with queries and searching, is a common theme.
Almost all community contributions say they want to see more materials; more books, more DVDs, more eresources, more magazines and more books in community languages. They want access to more programs, especially technology-based programs, and more events such as author talks and seminars.
They appreciate that they can access the latest technology at the library, but want to see this expanded to include a wider range of devices such as Apple Mac computers, tablets, ereaders and mobile devices. The free Internet access is appreciated but longer sessions would be of benefit.
The community wants to be able to access the library online, 24/7, to search catalogues and databases, place reservations and download ebooks and journals.
The buildings should be bigger with more space to study or sit quietly and read. Dedicated meeting rooms, community spaces and facilities, such as cafés, are positively viewed. The fact that libraries are welcoming, clean and pleasant places to visit is valued by the community.
The community wants libraries to remain open longer and include weekends and evenings, as well as more static libraries and more mobile library stops.
The community is overwhelmingly positive about libraries and wants them to remain a free service, and be expanded, updated and improved wherever possible.
Submissions and community contributions
Introduction
The Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) was re-established on 4 August 2011 by the Minister for Local Government, Jeanette Powell MP, and for the first time is a bi-partisan committee. The MAC was tasked to comprehensively review the role of Victorian public libraries, including services and funding arrangements. The review is being conducted in two stages over a two-year period; it started in January 2012 and is due to be completed by the end of 2013.
The review included an extensive consultation process with local government, the public library sector and the community to enable full input into the future of public libraries in Victoria.
The consultation process comprised two components: a public submission process and consultation sessions with councils, regional library corporations and the Victorian community.
A paper, Tomorrow’s Library, was developed to enable stakeholders and the community to contribute to the development of a future-focused and forward-thinking plan for Victorian public libraries through the submission process.
The paper had two components. The first was a formal discussion paper to be used as a basis for respondents to provide formal submissions. It was aimed at councils, regional library corporations and key sector stakeholders. The second component was a one-page community contribution paper that sought comment from the community on the aspects of library provision that most affected them.
Copies of the full discussion paper and the community contribution paper can be found at dpcd..au/tomorrows-library.
The Tomorrow’s Library paper was released in February 2012 and submissions were open until 31 May 2012.
A consultation website was developed and facilitated the lodgement of submissions and community contributions. Councils, regional library corporations and key stakeholders were able to upload formal submissions based on the discussion paper. Community members were able to provide contributions based on the community contribution paper.
More than 1500 submissions and community contributions were received.
Key themes emerged from the submissions, with many issues common across the public library sector. This report provides a summary of the submissions and community contributions received.
The information contained in this report has been taken directly from the submissions received during the Tomorrow’s Library consultation.
Methodology
Formal submissions
Formal submissions were received from the following organisations:
Ballarat City Council
Baw Baw Shire Council
Bayside City Council
Boroondara City Council
Brimbank City Council
Campaspe Shire Council
Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
Darebin City Council
East Gippsland Shire Council
Eastern Regional Library Corporation
Frankston City Council
Friends of Castlemaine Library
Friends of Euroa Library
Gannawarra Shire Council
Geelong Regional Library Corporation
Glenelg Shire Council
Goldfields Library Corporation
Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
Anne Tomietto of Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
Greater Dandenong City Council
Greater Geelong City Council
High Country Library Corporation
Hobsons Bay City Council
Hume City Council
Knox City Council
Latrobe City Council
Maribyrnong City Council
Melbourne City Council
Mildura Rural City Council
Monash City Council
Moonee Valley City Council
Moorabool Shire Council
Moreland City Council
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
Municipal Association of Victoria
Port Phillip City Council
Public Libraries Victoria Network
Stonnington City Council
Surf Coast Shire Council
Swan Hill Rural City Council
Victorian Local Governance Association
Warrnambool City Council
Wellington Shire Council
West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
Whitehorse-Manningham Regional Library Corporation
Wimmera Regional Library Corporation
Wyndham City Council
Yarra City Council
Yarra Plenty Regional Library Corporation
Yarra Ranges Shire Council
Each submission was read in its entirety and each point raised within the submission was documented. The frequency at which each point was raised was calculated and highlighted the most prevalent issues facing the library sector across Victoria.
The submission summary paper covers key issues raised in multiple submissions. As such, some specific, local issues raised may not be included in this summary.
Under each of the four sections from the discussion paper, this report outlines the key issues and provides relevant, direct quotes from the submissions to help illustrate and provide context for the issue. The quotes used are indicative only and are not an exhaustive list from all submissions received. Many additional and equally important quotes could have been included under all sections. However, to preserve the readability of the document, the number selected was limited.
Although funding issues were raised in many submissions, they have not been included in this summary report. Reviews of funding models will form part of stage two of the MAC review, in line with the terms of reference.
All formal submissions responding to the discussion paper are available in full at dpcd..au/tomorrows-library.
Community contributions
Each contribution from the community was read in its entirety. The summary of the community contributions, including direct quotes, is contained in this report after the summary of formal submissions. The quotes used are indicative only and are not an exhaustive list from all contributions received from the community. The report attempts to provide a snapshot of the community’s thoughts on libraries, now and in the future.
In order to protect the privacy of individuals who responded, the responses have not been published as stated at the start of the consultation process and stipulated in the community contribution paper.
Formal submissions
Overview
The formal submissions provide an insight into the challenges and opportunities libraries face now and in the future. The key issues raised under each section in the discussion paper (collections, resources and programs; library buildings; technology; and service delivery) are discussed in submissions. In addition to these issues, respondents provide an overview of the external environment and the landscape in which library services are operating. Several key external factors are identified as changing the environment in which libraries operate and are affecting the library sector across all areas.
These factors are outside of the control of the library sector and, as such, library services are being forced to adapt to new environments. These factors include:
• low literacy
• changing demographics
• socioeconomic issues
• increased expectations or changing community needs
• difficulty in servicing rural and regional areas.
Lifelong learning is discussed in most submissions and generally underpins library services.
Low literacy
The library sector believes it has a fundamental role to play in addressing low literacy in the community.
There is a stronger focus on low literacy issues in submissions received from library services in communities where high levels of disadvantage exist.
Program development is often driven by the aim to improve literacy in pre-school children. There is also a focus on adult literacy, particularly for retirees and the ageing population, to combat the reduction in functional literacy that may occur after leaving the workforce.
Socioeconomic issues
Socioeconomic issues affect libraries and the services they deliver. Several submissions state that there is either high levels of disadvantage within the community or pockets of disadvantage in otherwise gentrified areas. These factors are often drivers of program development and can increase demand for library services.
Changing demographics
Changing demographics within local communities are changing local community needs and, in turn, affecting the services libraries deliver.
Population growth will increase demand on library services, while the ageing population is presenting both opportunities and challenges. It is increasing access to potential volunteers while at the same time increasing demand for specific products and services, such as large print and audio books and home library outreach services.
Emerging and changing culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities pose new challenges for library services. Providing materials and programs in many different languages is both difficult and expensive. Literacy issues are magnified in CALD communities and the limited availability of staff who speak multiple languages makes this difficult to address.
Increased expectations or changing community needs
Increased community expectations or changing community needs are challenging library services. This is a result of several factors and is affecting all facets of library services. The community generally expects to be able to access new and emerging technology at the library, but it is difficult for some library services to provide this technology. Libraries also have limited staff with expertise in technology who can educate and support the community. It is expected that the rollout of the National Broadband Network will increase community expectations further.
Having the internal capacity to foresee changes in community needs or identify emerging trends is a challenge for some library services. Responding to these changes in a meaningful and timely manner is equally as challenging.
Rural and regional areas
Rural and regional areas have particular challenges in addition to those being faced by the sector as a whole, including declining populations, attracting and retaining staff, and the geographical distance of municipalities.
Statewide solutions and assistance
Many submissions suggest that statewide solutions and support are critical in dealing with many of the challenges facing libraries in the future. In some cases, this is articulated against specific issues, such as the implementation of a statewide library management system, and in other cases this was articulated as a general request for assistance, leadership or solutions to be provided at a statewide level.
Collections, resources and programs
“The key issues are: The changing nature of collections and resources and requirement to create and provide digital content. Current trends in local, national and international publishing trends for physical and electronic items as well as copyright and digital rights management issues.”
Boroondara City Council
Respondents primarily agree with the challenges listed in the Tomorrow’s Library discussion paper. The most commonly discussed issues under collections, resources and programs are:
• collections – investment, standards and quality
• eresources
• languages other than English (LOTE)
• programs
• radio-frequency identification (RFID)
• outreach.
Collection – investment, standards, quality
“The volume, relevance and currency of library collections are critical to the success of library services. Quality collections are core to the provision of a range of services to local communities.”
Greater Geelong City Council
“The Library collection is crucial to the success of the service...”
Gannawarra Shire Council
Collections are viewed as a vital component of libraries, but there are several
challenges in maintaining a high-quality collection that is reflective of the community and its needs. The cost to maintain and improve the collection, including providing a variety of formats, is identified as a major challenge.
“Maintaining investment in the collection (regardless of the changing nature of item formats) is the key challenge. The CCLC collection currently comprises 375,000 items including electronic format downloadable materials and databases. It has an insured value of approximately $10 million. Dealing with depreciation and ensuring replacement of items as they age and wear out is a key issue.” Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
“GRLC has invested significantly in collections with an annual investment of $1,488,366 proposed for 2012/13. This is in recognition of the fact that quality collections and information services are a core part of public library business.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“The biggest challenge for the Moorabool Shire Council will be investment in the collection. Moorabool was a part of the Central Highlands Regional Library Corporation and under this Corporation our per capita spend on library collection was well below average.” Moorabool Shire Council
The need to provide an appropriate and quality collection for an ageing population, such as large print and audio collections, is increasing.
“Library members consistently request, through user surveys, an increased collection. For Latrobe City that means more large print or audio books... these formats come at a considerable higher cost than general printed resources.” Latrobe City Council
“Some borrowers have complained about the books that are made available in large print – ‘just because my eyesight is failing doesn’t mean I only want to read drivel.’” Goldfields Library Corporation
“18% of the residents of the Shire are over 65 which indicates that the allocation required for large print and audio resources will be required.” Campaspe Shire Council
A decline in demand for CDs and DVDs and dealing with obsolescent technology are also discussed.
“There is a decline in demand for DVDs & CDs, with a rise in demand for virtual supply of this material. Currently this is cost prohibitive for many services.” Moreland City Council
“There may be an increase in demand and use of digital collections which will see a decline in investment in physical print and CD / DVD collections.” Frankston City Council
“...this is even more important with the emergence of technological products such as e-books, e-sound books, mp3 files and the pending obsolescence of CDs and DVDs which are currently the most popular resources being borrowed by Maribyrnong Library Service members.” Maribyrnong City Council
Procurement of materials is recognised as an area where significant savings may
be achievable through collaborative purchasing arrangements.
“Brimbank participates in collaborative procurement of collections and has the majority of items delivered shelf ready to the branches that significantly reduces the staff resources required for acquisitions and maximises Council’s investment in collections.” Brimbank City Council
“We moved to supplier aided selection and shelf ready material delivered directly to branches. We saved over $300,000 annually by adopting this model” Yarra Plenty Regional Library
“The cost of purchasing collections is a major component of library expenditure. Collaborative purchasing arrangements and ‘shelf-ready items’ may help reduce these costs.” Latrobe City Council
Purchasing material that is shelf-ready is viewed as a worthwhile investment that enables staff to focus on front-of-house rather than back-of-house processes. However, the recurrent costs and the time associated with obtaining shelf-ready items, is a growing challenge.
“Regional libraries need assistance in purchasing shelf ready stock in a timely way.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“A corresponding challenge is meeting the shelf ready (cataloguing and processing) recurrent costs for a growing collection.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Goldfields Library Corporation participates in collaborative purchasing for library materials. However, we need to expand the process so that ALL material is available to the library, shelf ready with minimal back of house intervention. Some suppliers are resisting providing the level of shelf ready services that will see libraries realise economies of scale.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Increased purchasing of “shelf ready” books as recommended in the Collections Audit. This improves library efficiency and reduces costs for library operations/technical services.” Public Library Victoria Network
Statewide standards are supported by respondents, but there are significant challenges in meeting the current Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) standards. These include the cost of achieving per capita targets, a lack of space to house the collection size required to meet the standards, and the accuracy of standards as an indication of a quality collection. Some services are not able to meet the ALIA recommended standard.
“Maintaining the collection to ALIA standards is a challenge which requires continued investment, and replacement of materials.” Moonee Valley City Council
“...state-wide standards around collection age and numbers need to be set by ALIA/ PLVN / or another governing body...” Stonnington City Council
“We support the adoption and implementation of statewide, if not national, standards for collections and the adoption of consortium purchasing and processing models that reduce duplication but meet Local Government Act requirements.” Baw Baw Shire Council
“Collection targets, if we are talking about print, are not compatible with sq m library spaces that we have available. Bayside currently has 1.87 items per capita to increase this to 2 or even more as recommended will seriously overcrowd libraries...” Bayside City Council
Eresources
“The provision of ebooks is not simply about choosing to offer an electronic version of reading a book... this has the potential to challenge current funding frameworks, a state-wide approach to answer the growing questions around e-books is extremely important.”
Darebin City Council
Almost every submission discusses issues surrounding eresources. Maintaining print collections at the same time as introducing digital formats, finding the right balance
and meeting community demand is a challenge for library services.
“Rapid growth of e-collections is being experienced in addition to growth of usage of print collections. In fact at GRLC demand for both print and e-formats is growing. We do anticipate that we will transition to a majority e-collection but this will not occur in the short term.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Given that demand for print material has yet to significantly wane, Our Library is faced with complex decisions in balancing the costs of acquiring e-resources while meeting relatively stable ongoing demand for print material.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
“Usage of physical items is not decreasing significantly as our libraries did 2.6 million loans in 2010/11. However, there is an increased expectation for parallel formats and the City of Boroondara has implemented the provision of e-audio material and will shortly introduce ebook provision through Overdrive...” Boroondara City Council
“GRLC is investing in e-books and e-databases recognising the rapid transition to e-publishing and the take-up by community members. Rapid growth of e-collections is on top of growth of usage of print collections. Demand for both print and e-formats are growing.” Surf Coast Shire Council
Negotiating with the publishing industry to access ebooks for loans, differing licence agreements and purchasing models, digital rights management and dealing with multiple platforms are both challenging and costly, particularly for small libraries. It is suggested that a statewide or national approach to ebooks would be beneficial.
“Availability and affordability of eBooks is a very big issue. eBooks are increasingly requested but the platforms available for loaning eBooks is complex and expensive. Libraries will struggle to maintain a diverse collection for the community if a solution is not found. Publishers are not keen to lend or even sell eBooks to libraries. Public libraries are not included in the revenue stream model... The State Government could assist with legal or business expertise to establish/consolidate these models, particularly for the online information resources and eBooks.” Hobsons Bay City Council
“Licensing for usage of electronic resources is far more complicated than the current copyright laws allowing printed books to be loaned by libraries. Licensing issues need to be negotiated with publishers to enable libraries to continue providing equitable access to books and information no matter what format they are published in... Libraries will be reliant on suppliers of electronic books and resources to maintain the list of titles purchased. We will be reliant on suppliers remaining solvent otherwise a library’s entire virtual collection may disappear with the closure of a supplier.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
“All library services face additional challenges with the introduction of electronic formats due to limited library suppliers and restrictions on access imposed by publishers. The library corporation recommends advocacy to publishers and suppliers encouraging greater access to electronic material for libraries.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
“Every ebook vendor has their own platform. Libraries need the options to use ONE platform for all ebooks though. It should be as simple as a bookshelf. The State government could help with this conversation.” Port Phillip Council
“There are high establishment costs for many e-book suppliers such as Overdrive. These costs could be reduced through consortia arrangements however some suppliers are unwilling to offer these conditions. State government funding for establishment costs for library consortia e-book collections would be beneficial.” Moreland City Council
Several respondents state they already offer ebooks for loan through organisations such as Overdrive and Bolinda. However, they have found the range of titles available is limited due to several major publishing companies withholding ebooks from libraries to loan, or publications have not yet been converted to an electronic format.
“Digital rights management is an issue already experienced by US libraries with Penguin removing access to their titles provided through Overdrive despite being included at the purchase point. Limited availability in Australia for overseas works.” Frankston City Council
“[The] publishing industry [has a] reluctance to make econtent available to public libraries.” Eastern Regional Library Corporation
Languages other than English (LOTE)
“The public library is often the first point of contact by newly arrived residents with a government authority, whether coming from another municipality or across the world. This second group is a core demographic for public library support...” Yarra City Council
“The acquisition of materials in community languages is highly complex and can be problematic due to factors which, by and large, are not encountered in the acquisition
of English language materials.” Moreland City Council
The cost of a quality languages other than English (LOTE) collection, particularly shelf-ready LOTE materials, is high and the option for collaborative LOTE procurement is limited. It is difficult to obtain material in some languages and LOTE material in formats other than print. It is noted that servicing emerging culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities is challenging.
“Providing collections in community languages is a challenge. It is difficult to obtain resources in some languages and purchasing and processing the material is expensive (costs are significantly higher than English language materials). Collaborative purchasing of shelf-ready materials would be beneficial... Providing adequate resources in community languages is a significant challenge for Brimbank libraries. Collections are provided in English and 13 community languages. The community would benefit from an expansion of both the resources available in the current community language collections and an increase in the number of language collections. There is a limited capacity to provide collections in community languages due to space constraints and the costs associated purchasing and shelf ready.” Brimbank City Council
“New waves of migration which may warrant the introduction of new LOTE collections are often constrained by budget limits or space.” Hobsons Bay City Council
“The City of Greater Dandenong is among the State’s highest purchaser of Languages Other Than English (LOTE) material. The acquisition and processing of LOTE material is complex and expensive process requiring additional resources allocated to these functions and services. There is high demand for literacy English Language learning material which the Library provides through multi-part learning kits and online resources. The acquisition and processing of this material is also complex
and expensive.” Greater Dandenong City Council
“A major challenge for Wyndham is being able to procure shelf ready LOTE materials at a reasonable cost.” Wyndham City Council
“Hume City Council has made significant investment in its library materials and resources. However, sourcing, cataloguing and managing the library materials and resources in LOTE is both challenging and more expensive than it is for library materials in English. Furthermore, a majority of the LOTE resources Hume purchases are not delivered shelf-ready. This significantly increases the staff resources required to have the resources shelf-ready. Collaborative procurement of LOTE collections and resources may have enormous cost saving benefits and maximise value for money.” Hume City Council
“The needs of smaller CALD communities can be difficult to address. Economies of scale that support the sourcing and cataloguing of materials for larger language groups do not exist for smaller language groups... It would be useful for libraries to have assistance in the identification of vendors that provide material in ‘small’ CALD languages for a reasonable price.” Monash City Council
The current LOTE collection and procurement process could be improved, possibly
with a centralised LOTE collection, which would assist library services in responding
to CALD needs.
“Although the number of CALD people in our community is growing they come from many different countries so only a few people speak each language. It is too costly to maintain a collection for each of the languages spoken in our community. Libraries across the state already share their multilingual collections. However it would be helpful to have large centralised holdings of books in various languages for rotation between libraries around the state so less staff resources and time are required to manage the sourcing of, and interlibrary loaning of books.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
“Sharing LOTE collections across the State would be of great benefit (i.e. bulk loans). LOTE materials are very resource intensive at often double or triple the cost of an English language item.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“The challenges for Maribyrnong Library Service are in the lack of resources available for purchase in emerging languages and the high costs relating to making LOTE resources shelf ready. A system of collaborative purchasing and processing of LOTE resources (particularly in cataloguing) would be positive step forward.” Maribyrnong City Council
“Providing sufficient library resources in languages other than English (LOTE) is a continuing challenge for public libraries. This is especially so with an increasingly multi-cultural population, the constantly changing nature (origins) of migrant communities, the difficulties of obtaining resources in some languages and the expense of purchasing and processing the appropriate collection materials. A system of collaborative purchasing of shelf-ready LOTE materials and a formalised bulk loan system... would greatly assist public libraries to meet the needs of multi-cultural communities in relation to LOTE.” Public Libraries Victoria Network
Programs
“Lifelong Learning programming like collections is a public library core business.”
Surf Coast Shire Council
“The Libraries provide a range of programs that are to enhance Literacy; facilitate life-long learning, civic participation and build cultural understanding and social connections in the community. Programs are a core part of Library Service delivery.”
Greater Dandenong City Council
Libraries are experiencing an increase in demand for programs from the community. Meeting this demand is challenging due to the cost of program delivery, limited staff resources, a lack of space to deliver programs, and a lack of staff skills to develop, promote and implement programs.
“The programs provided by Glenelg Libraries will continue to operate in order to promote literacy to targeted groups in the community, but this will be done in a planned and strategic way in order to not over-stretch the current staff, time and space resources.” Glenelg Shire Council
“Providing resources and developing programs that provide a focus for addressing disadvantage... remains an issue.” East Gippsland Shire Council
“As programs will need to respond to changes in demographics and community demand, so staff skills need to be flexible and adaptable to meet these changes.” Frankston City Council
“Demand for programs, particularly children’s programs and book clubs, is increasing and outstripping the resources available to provide.” Bayside City Council
“While some of these initiatives have been resourced via normal operational funding, the Literacy Villages and Ready Set Read programs have required additional budget allocations from Council. Ongoing development of these programs will require long-term resourcing.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
“Demand for programs is increasing. There is a need for more sessions and at all branch libraries. Cost of distance and isolation to bring authors, etc. is an issue. Also more space and staff to run programs. More programs required for the Youth & Adults in our area.” Mildura Rural City Council
“The library service will continue to develop strong partnerships and collaborative ventures which enable great and successful library programming. It should also be noted that increasing operational costs will put pressure on Council’s ability to deliver the range of programs expected by public libraries.” Campaspe Shire Council
“Current programming at Warrnambool is limited to preschool story time and some special events. The lack of resources to provide additional programming opportunities limits the capacity to attract non-traditional library users to the service.” Warrnambool City Council
There is a strong focus on technology training programs, literacy programs and children’s programs, as well as programs tailored to the ageing population. More collaboration and partnerships with community organisations are discussed as possible opportunities to increase libraries’ capacity to deliver programs.
“We offer a range of regular training programs that vary from the introductory to how to use mobile devices, and have operated a very successful Community Savvy Seniors program for many years.” Boroondara City Council
“Currently Castlemaine Library conducts a range of adult and children’s programs and we feel this should grow.” Friends of Castlemaine Library
“Demand for delivery of programs to the community is growing. There is increasing demand and high expectations from the community for delivery of programs for all ages, for lifelong learning, social interaction, pathways to tertiary education, adult learning programs, technology programs, and children’s programs.” Moonee Valley City Council
“WMRLC partners with member councils and a number of other agencies to provide services and programs encouraging lifelong learning... additional programs are provided to meet expectations and needs of an increasing diverse community.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
There is a stronger focus on programs in library planning and, in some cases, programs are considered as important as the physical collections.
“Increasing focus on programs and activities that support lifelong learning, social inclusion and literacy development and less focus on the management and presence of the physical collection.” West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
“Our goal is to build community capacity through the delivery of a range of innovative programs. We achieve this goal through promoting our libraries as community hubs and through our partnerships with over 200 community organisations. We aspire to be accessible to all and to provide programs that increase literacy; encourage reading; enable learning; and promote community harmony and well-being.” Yarra Plenty Regional Library
Radio-frequency identification (RFID)
“... the discussion paper correctly identifies the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) as a source of increased cost to library services. At the same time, however, it is likely to increase the efficiency of the service by concentrating the time of professional librarians in assisting the community access and identify critical information – not just to manage administrative tasks such as borrowings.”
Municipal Association of Victoria
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) reduces repetitive, process-driven work and increases staff capacity to interact with patrons and deliver programs.
“It [RFID] has increased the capacity of staff to undertake different tasks and value added interactions. However, the cost of maintaining the technology is not catered for in IT budgets or in collection budgets.” Hobsons Bay City Council
“...a move from a process based working model to a service based model, with RFID, self-check loans and more targeted, smaller collections freeing up staff to work with individual borrowers.” Baw Baw Shire Council
“Five years ago we implemented RFID at all branches. This has changed the focus of branch work and has freed up staff to provide more programs and activities while also allowing us to open an additional 70 hours a week with no additional staff.” Yarra Plenty Regional Library
“Over the past year due to the introduction of RFID and self serve technologies Wyndham has been able to considerably improve its range of programs offered to residents and level of reference service to library users.” Wyndham City Council
“RFID frees up staff from repetitive tasks that present long term OH&S risks into opportunities for new or extended programs.” Eastern Regional Library Corporation
“With the introduction of RFID self service kiosks, the model of service has changed with focus more on user support, general reference assistance and public training. MLS Library staff have undergone training and continue to develop skills in customer service and reference interviews as a result of the move from the more traditional transactional based service model.” Melbourne City Council
Barriers to implementing RFID include the significant upfront costs and the requirement to redesign the library space. Challenges for library services after the implementation of RFID include the ongoing costs of tagging and providing staff training to adapt to changing roles. There is little benefit for small library services in implementing RFID.
“The Warrnambool branch library does not have an RFID facility. This would require significant capital investment, and Council is not in a position to undertake this currently.” Warrnambool City Council
“Many libraries are implementing RFID. Swan Hill currently uses only barcodes to record loans to customers. If some libraries implement RFID and others don’t we will all have to operate two methods to record customers’ loans and return of items from other library services. This is an issue already being considered by libraries in the Swift Consortium who exchange a large number of books on a daily basis between different library services. The current cost of RFID is too expensive and beyond the budget of our small library service to be able to implement in the near future.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
“RFID is expensive to implement and requires a large initial outlay. However, the benefits of RFID in terms of manual handling and collection maintenance are significant and we will begin the planning for its implementation in 2013/14.” Stonnington City Council
“In terms of collection utilisation, many libraries have, or are in the process of, installing RFID technology. This enables much better collection management in streamlining stocktake and weeding and also facilitates self-service loans. RFID technology also frees up staff to assist the public with value added task such as finding information, broadening their reading choices and using IT equipment.” Public Libraries Victoria Network
It is proposed that RFID can be implemented more efficiently on a statewide basis.
“A statewide program of purchasing RFID tags for all libraries would deliver significant cost benefits. This would be of great assistance in helping, in particular the smaller country libraries, to make use of RFID technology and would also result in standardisation of RFID tags across the State. This would lead to reduced library operating costs through economies of scale and contribute further to the seamless sharing of the State’s library collections. Statewide tagging as a one off program also has the potential to standardise collection handling for the processing of inter library loans.” Latrobe City Council
“RFID –self-check machines would free up staff time, enhance resource management, and provide more flexibility in branches for customer service. This is prohibitively expensive for libraries to implement, although a state-wide program supported through SLV or State Government would enable this to be rolled out to all libraries.” High Country Library Corporation
“RFID (Radio Frequency Identification of library materials) - Cost vs benefit. Could this become a statewide project under Living Libraries or other funding?” Ballarat City Council
“Obtain State Government funding support for a tender for the provision of ISO28560 compatible tags for all public library items in the State of Victoria. Tags to be made freely available to all public libraries and to be progressively encoded and placed on items. It is quite possible to undertake a tender process to source RFID tags to allow the progressive tagging of all items in the Victorian public library collection prior to an individual library choosing a particular vendor to supply the other loans and checking technology to support operations.” Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
Outreach
“Enhancing literacy levels will not grow without outreach.”
Baw Baw Shire Council
“Targeting non-users through outreach is vital.”
Anne Tomietto of Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
Demand for outreach services is increasing and it is expected that home library service demand will continue to increase due to the ageing population.
“Outreach services are provided to communities where the older residents may be isolated, or to residential care facilities.” High Country Library Corporation
“Maribyrnong Library Service sees outreach over the next five years to continue to be delivered through staff visiting the community in their homes, retirement villages, nursing homes, community centres and for children, at schools, kindergartens and centres.” Maribyrnong City Council
“Home Library Service – increasing demands for this service as rural populations age.” Mildura Rural City Council
“Our aging population has increased the demand on our outreach services. We are currently developing a volunteer program to assist with the delivery of an enhanced outreach service but recognise this is likely to be a short term measure as the median age of volunteers is increasing and the volunteer base is likely to diminish greatly within the next 10 years.” Latrobe City Council
It is challenging for library services to meet growing outreach demand with limited resources.
“Bayside currently runs an outreach service at Elsternwick housing estate and would like to expand this to other estates but more resources are required.” Bayside City Council
“There is a clear expectation from the community and Councils for public libraries to deliver an increased number of varied outreach programs and services. While this is of great interest to public libraries, the resources to meet this growing demand do not currently exist and without this issue being addressed, the expectation cannot be met.” Darebin City Council
“GVRLC does a lot of outreach programs and most are at the request of community groups. These programs are increasing and placing further strains on our limited resources.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“Exploring partnerships for program delivery, especially regarding outreach.” Wellington Shire Council
Library buildings
“Not only must library buildings continue to offer the ability to be flexible and adaptable to many uses, there is a clear changed community expectation around service delivery. This includes the expectation of: function space, meeting rooms with state of the art IT capabilities,
flexible learning spaces, IT hubs, quiet study spaces and event spaces.”
Darebin City Council
The need for modern, flexible and well-designed buildings is a strong theme in submissions. Several key considerations have been identified as integral to creating the ideal library building and meeting community expectations.
They are:
• spaces and standards
• compliance, codes and environmentally sustainable design (ESD)
• mobile libraries
• costs
• location and community hubs.
Spaces and standards
“Design is no longer only about collection spaces but also about people spaces for individual and group study, quiet/noisy activity, for casual reading, for lifelong learning programming, community connection and connection with knowledge and ideas through a range of media including digital connectivity and resources.”
Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Communities are expecting Libraries to be more than just a repository of books. People expect library spaces to provide space for them to study in groups, individually and be the “third place” in their lives. Library users have the expectation that they will be able to utilise a community space in a way that satisfies their particular need. The “small” traditional style library does not meet the needs of a modern community.”
Wyndham City Council
There is a need for more floor space in many libraries and for flexible, modern spaces that meet changing community needs. Library services need to balance the competing desires of patrons, particularly between quiet and noisy spaces.
“The most significant library buildings issue is the lack of available floor space for public access.” Brimbank City Council
“Social change predicted over the next decade suggests that increasing numbers of those in the workforce working from home as well as isolated older adults in the community will use their local library as a place for accessing information, community interaction and as a place of belonging. These factors combined with the pressures already identified on study, lifelong learning facilities in addition to provision of spaces for interaction and community engagement will add further demands on existing library facilities.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
“The major challenge with library buildings is keeping up with the changing needs of the library users and making sure the space fits the need...” Stonnington City Council
“Ensure spaces and facilities are flexible to accommodate changing needs... Buildings will need to provide more space for people as opposed to materials. Buildings will be used more for people with their own devices to access information and attend programs.” Wellington Shire Council
“Community members continue to require traditional libraries services, spaces and programs but have increasingly varied expectations requiring a range of collection formats, access to technology, programs, meeting spaces and communication/engagement options both in library branches and externally with other agencies.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
“To create spaces for events and spaces for various noise levels / privacy.” Wimmera Regional Library Corporation
“Alongside a major commitment to each library building is the ongoing need to revitalise and refresh existing libraries. Often, this is undertaken in a reactive way by libraries and leads to floor layout, merchandising systems, service counters and furniture needing to be reconfigured and replaced earlier than is necessary. Or in most cases, libraries find themselves compounding their space and floor organisational problems through lack of sufficient space management and interior design skills. We recommend that the State Government develop a fully funded scheme where they employ skilled space management and interior design personnel to assist libraries manage their space, merchandising and interior design decisions for existing, established libraries.” Maribyrnong City Council
Providing appropriate space for program use is challenging for many library services, particularly as demand for this is increasing.
“There is a lack of floor space in two of the branch libraries to run programs (which are extremely popular at all ages).” Bayside City Council
“To run successful programs, we need to have suitable and flexible space in our libraries. Often, programs are run in tight, restricted spaces where collections are held. Programs are also held in meeting rooms which are removed from the open public area and not appropriate for most programs.” Maribyrnong City Council
“In Tomorrow’s library, library services will increasingly need to be attractive reading areas that offer flexible learning and program spaces.” Baw Baw Shire Council
Many library services do not have the space for technology or accessible power points for patrons using personal devices.
“More people are using their own technology (e.g. mobile phones, iPads, iPods, etc.) in the library so suitable spaces with easy access to power points are required and power leads do not have to run across the floor.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
“The largest obstacle to increasing the number of PCs in the short-term is limited space and supporting IT and electrical infrastructure in 1970s buildings. Wi-Fi use has seen a change in the way the Library space itself is being used. There are more users now accessing study space for individual laptop based work.” Greater Dandenong City Council
“The demand for wi-fi will increase as mobile devices become far more affordable. Campaspe also has a large tourist and transient worker influx at certain times which places additional pressure of wi-fi delivery and the space within the libraries for people to use it.” Campaspe Shire Council
The adoption of statewide standards for Victorian library buildings and more government support in planning new building projects is desired.
“Ratification of the NSW People Places publication which provides some guidance for designing new and redeveloped public library spaces and is the standard quoted for Australian public library buildings would be beneficial.” Moreland City Council
“We support the adoption and implementation national standards for buildings and compliance with building codes and environmental requirements. This includes mobile libraries. Into the future Victoria should be an active participant in future revisions of the document People Places.” West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
“It is important that government continue to fund the Living Libraries Grant Program in order that Councils have support to meet the community demand for high quality and purpose built library buildings. It is also essential that building standards are written for the Victorian public library context such as those prepared by the NSW state government. These guidelines should contain the basis for a sustainability framework in the building and renovation of library buildings.” Monash City Council
“That formal standards for library buildings be established. This would assist to guide council’s in the design process.” Hobsons Bay City Council
“Standards: An agreed standard on the size of public libraries would assist in planning of new facilities, although being a capital city library our central library would require significant extra space to cope with the demands placed on it.” Melbourne City Council
Creating functional library spaces that meet technology requirements is a challenge for library buildings that are old or not purpose-built.
“Buildings are not purpose-built and allow little flexibility in the use of the space. More flexible space is needed for casual and multi-purpose use to be able to provide for increased community programming.” High Country Library Corporation
“One of the key challenges is that today’s library user expects much more space - to study, to meet people, to use mobile devices - and this needs to be balanced with the fact that our libraries are landlocked existing facilities.” Boroondara City Council
Compliance, codes and environmentally sustainable design (ESD)
“Revised building codes and other requirements have significant cost implications. The increased community desire to move to ‘green buildings’ places increased strain on financial resources to meet these requirements. Many established libraries are operating from outdated buildings, including Latrobe City. Refurbishment projects rarely include budgets that extend to environmental efficiencies and appropriate access improvements are often limited to a minimum.”
Latrobe City Council
Compliance with building codes and meeting accessibility requirements are challenging for library services and can increase the cost of capital projects.
“Providing up-to-date library buildings that meet current expectations and comply with current building codes requires a huge investment... The capital costs of libraries is escalating fast in order to meet community expectations and ESD requirements.” Boroondara City Council
“The most pressing challenge is ensuring that library buildings and the facilities within them meet the needs of the community. Council will need to continue to upgrade technology and meet compliance regulations that contribute to public safety and building standards.” Campaspe Shire Council
“Compliance with public toilets and risk management requirements are compounded by the majority of library buildings being constructed before these issues were properly considered and policies developed. Things like egress and access points, disabled toilets and meeting disability regulations, have considerable cost implications to bring existing buildings into line with ‘modern’ policies in these areas.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
There is an increased community awareness and expectation of environmentally sustainable design, but meeting these expectations can be expensive and challenging.
“The community desire to see environmental outcomes in public facilities like libraries which require additional financial investment and the additional finance required is placing pressure on Council to achieve such outcomes.” Greater Geelong City Council
“Compliance – green building techniques have had limited incorporation into Frankston’s existing buildings and whilst the buildings are suitable for green energy there is limited budget capacity to enable this.” Frankston City Council
“Sustainability is paramount in all investments made in Moreland and ecologically sustainable design features are incorporated into all new buildings, building redesign and renovation works. It can add to the upfront costs but has a proven track record for long term benefits both in terms of durability and reducing energy use.” Moreland City Council
“Environmental concerns in reducing our carbon footprint and making buildings “green” entails additional costs.” High Country Library Corporation
“Libraries need to be seen as a model for sustainability and environmentally friendly design, to be a showcase for energy efficiency and the use of natural materials.” Moonee Valley City Council
It is particularly challenging to meet building codes, accessibility requirements and environmentally sustainable design principles for older or heritage-listed buildings.
“Many of our libraries are well over 30 years old, some well over 100 years old. There are issues with operational efficiencies, lack of appropriate access and security, Occupational Health and Safety, environmental sustainability and service delivery. Some of our buildings have inappropriate access for the aged and disabled and maintenance and facility upgrade is hampered, particularly if it is a heritage listed building or sits within a heritage overlay... To comply with building standards it is often more cost effective, efficient and successful to build a new building from scratch rather than try to retro-fit new compliance standards onto or into old buildings. Purpose built facilities with the opportunity for future expansion should be selected when looking at new library sites.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Compliance with building codes and other relevant requirements are a significant challenge for WMRLC due to the age of existing library buildings.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
“Compliance is an issue with older buildings – OH&S; accessibility etc.” Bayside City Council
Mobile libraries
“Traditionally, mobile libraries have been the means of reaching the smaller isolated communities but these are expensive and cannot reach all the communities. Victoria’s fleet is ageing and will require upgrading/replacement over time... The service model of the mobile being a repository of books with some Internet access is being challenged as libraries move towards an expanded role as a meeting place for the community. What will this mean for mobile library design?”
Public Libraries Victoria Network
The mobile library provides important services to small communities, increasing social inclusion opportunities.
“All library services, together with the State of Victoria has a social responsibility to service areas with the mobile library in areas declining populations, particularly when the mobile library may be the only social event for some people.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Mobile Libraries are gathering community places, offering older residents, parents and children the opportunity to browse a library collection and borrow without having to travel distances to a static library.” Surf Coast Shire Council
“The mobile library service is provided to seven townships in Baw Baw by a prime mover truck with a specially adapted and serviceable trailer housing collection materials and access to wireless internet. The size of materials carried is limited but orders can be placed for delivery. Mobile library stop-over points are located in a number of smaller towns and villages and are visited by the mobile library to provide access to the service in those communities.” Baw Baw Shire Council
Meeting the high costs and ongoing maintenance requirements of mobile libraries, especially larger vehicles, is challenging for library services.
“The Mobile Library service is expensive as well as running small Branch Libraries.” Mildura Rural City Council
“The Mobile Library continues to be our main method of reaching the smaller townships and remote communities in the region. The current vehicle, now several years old, needs constant maintenance due to rough roads, the distance travelled and general wear and tear. If the vehicle breaks down there is no mobile library service until the vehicle is back on the road. Customers then miss out until the next rostered visit.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
“The mobile library while it may be considered by other library services as expensive to operate (many library services have decommissioned the mobile library and replaced the ‘service’ with book depots) it is the most efficient and effective and important community asset [more] than maintaining and operating a small static library. It’s their mobile library.” Goldfields Library Corporation
A move to smaller mobile library vehicles, or changes in technology, may make other methods of service delivery to small or remote communities more viable.
“Council, with the support of the State Government, is in the process of replacing its current mobile library vehicle with a smaller vehicle able to reach new readers and users. It will be able to visit places like residential aged care facilities, industrial estates, community centres, festivals and events and caravan parks. In part this outreach library service has been designed to respond to the ageing population in Knox.” Knox City Council
“Moving beyond the main Service Centres, we are currently transitioning our very large Mobile Library service to a smaller, more robust and flexible place based service operating out of the Service Centres. This new approach means that the mobile library services will utilise and strengthen existing community infrastructure in our smaller communities as we are in the process of establishing library depots and working jointly with community centres and neighbourhood houses across the Shire to support access to Library services.” East Gippsland Shire Council
“The continuing expectation of mobile library services, which may require investment in smaller, more agile vehicles, possibly special purpose technology vans. Managing the fuel and greenhouse costs of mobile library vehicles, will need to be balanced against the environmental cost of people travelling to sole purpose libraries... Mobile library design could be a statewide project to assist councils/RLC’s with upgrading and forward financial forecasting.” West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
“It would be timely to review the provision of services such as book vending machines in smaller communities (up to about 1,500 people), with 24/7 access, rather than focusing on very small opening hours or poorly supported mobile stops. This would need to be balanced with the provision of programs and activities that the community can participate in, rather than simple borrowing.” Baw Baw Shire Council
Any reduction in mobile library services was cautioned against.
“These [mobile library services] areas are not given same priority as ‘static libraries’. Throughout the state, too often we have seen the demise of mobile library vehicles which are seen as safe community hubs in their own right. Throughout the state, too often we have seen them replaced with buildings, rooms or depots which are not fit for purpose. Often these static sites are not well maintained and library service provision goes into decline.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Collection access and the mobile delivery service was tested in 2011 when both mobiles were taken out of service for refurbishment and/or repairs. The community let us know that alternative services (Winnebago vehicle) were no replacement for the larger mobile service mainly due to the collection browsing capacity of the larger vehicle.” West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
Cost
“The capital costs of modern libraries to build, replace and update is escalating.”
Greater Dandenong City Council
The cost associated with the planning and development of library facilities is increasing and placing pressure on council budgets. The expense of maintaining old buildings and retrofitting for technology requirements are key issues, especially for a heritage-listed building.
“The capital costs of libraries is escalating fast in order to meet community expectations and ESD requirements.” Boroondara City Council
“There is a need to provide capital investment to maintain and improve standards, and where possible to design fit for purpose buildings that will provide long term benefits for the community.” Moreland City Council
“The cost of building facilities has increased over time due to the increased complexity and size of the designs and the general increase in building costs.” Latrobe City Council
Submissions seek assistance from the state and federal governments to help meet the challenges and growing cost of library buildings.
“The cost of a purpose built central library for Melbourne Library Service will require significant support from other levels of government and stakeholders.” Melbourne City Council
“With building costs growing due to compliance requirements co location of community services and the need to increase the size of library buildings to accommodate the growing content of library services, additional assistance from Government is required to meet this challenge.” Knox City Council
“These new facilities are expected to cost in the vicinity of 34 million. This figure does not include the cost of establishing opening day collections and the ongoing recurrent cost. Ideally new library building infrastructure should be eligible for a fixed amount of funding from State Government to assist with the considerable cost of establishing new libraries.” Wyndham City Council
The importance of the Living Libraries Infrastructure program is highlighted, although the maximum grant is viewed as inadequate compared with total building costs.
“Ongoing support from the State Government through grant opportunities Living Libraries and the Community Support Fund are essential to meeting the escalating cost of building renewal and technology currency.” Yarra City Council
“State Government funding support from the Living Libraries Fund has assisted in the capital cost of such work but the current funding cap of $750K is not sufficient to support Council in ensuring that future work achieves purpose built outcomes that can provide for flexible spaces. Major State and/or Federal Government funding programmes to support Council in the capital cost of new/redeveloped/refurbishments for libraries in the Geelong Region will provide opportunities for assistance.” Greater Geelong City Council
“While we are appreciative of funding opportunities, particularly the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, this is competitive and currently capped at $750,000 per project; far short of the cost of building a new library.” Yarra Plenty Regional Library
Location and community hubs
“Co-location with other retail or community facilities is critical to get the best use and activity from a library branch. Placement near transport hubs is also vital, including adequate car parking, access to bus and rail and proximity to school bus routes.”
Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
There is strong support for co-location and it is viewed as an opportunity to provide enhanced services to the community. The concept of a ‘community hub’ is a theme
in submissions.
“To maximise the return on investment and provide the community with joined-up services, libraries are often collocated with other community services such as Neighbourhood Houses and Maternal and Child Health facilities. Such models offer many benefits to communities. As mentioned earlier, reduced operating costs are just one benefit. Easier access for communities to not only Council services, but also to other public or private services can be achieved, providing a huge benefit to many people.” Latrobe City Council
“There is potential over the next five to ten years for co-location or relocation of services to create community hubs with a library and learning centre focus, and locating with similar services that have a community focus – this presents the biggest challenge, both in regard to scope of the project and involving different services across council.” Moonee Valley City Council
“Co-location of services such as schools provide an opportunity rather than a challenge – leading to efficient multi-purpose use of space, positive environmental outcomes and can lead to significant cost savings.” Surf Coast Shire Council
“Create a facility that will provide the opportunity to integrate Council and Library services in a central location in Bairnsdale, exposing more people to what the library has to offer.” East Gippsland Shire Council
“Many new libraries in Victoria are established in multi-purpose ‘community hub’ style facilities. This results in better cross-promotion and marketing, improved user convenience and better cross-service utilisation of community services/facilities. It also enables more efficient use of resources and reduced staffing operating costs.” Public Libraries Victoria Network
There is a desire for an effective co-location model to be shared throughout the sector and a co-location policy developed.
“We regard co-location with other services an OPPORTUNITY rather than a challenge - leading to efficient multipurpose use of space, positive environmental outcomes and can lead to significant cost savings. There is however a lack of overarching policy development in the area of community hubs and joint use libraries. Some policy direction at State level following a consultative process would be of great benefit for planning such projects.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“There is a requirement for state level support for long-term plans for the redevelopment and improvement of libraries towards to the community hub model.” Darebin City Council
“In theory co-location offers many benefits however Council believes there are a number of issues that require closer examination and include much needed policy development specific to co-location and collaborative working models to ensure all levels of government and agencies involved understand the implications and commitments.” Greater Geelong City Council
Several challenges relating to co-location of services are identified, including space constraints, the difficulty in managing the model, appropriate staffing and attracting appropriate services.
“Due to space limitations in Baw Baw’s static libraries, there is very limited capacity to integrate other community uses into the libraries, even though there is strong community demand for this to occur.” Baw Baw Shire Council
“The co-location of public library services with other related services is a growing trend across Councils. The potential for public libraries to be the ‘anchor’ for community hub buildings is obvious however this will continue to be a challenge in regards to the large scope of these building projects and the possible number of council services involved in the changing face of community service provision.” Darebin City Council
“FOCAL is against the co-location of library services with other services if this simply merges those services. There is a need for greater integration of community information within the library and maintaining appropriate staffing is a priority, i.e. not absorbing an additional service with no additional staff.” Friends of Castlemaine Library
The physical location of a library is a key factor in providing equitable access and increasing patronage. A location near parking, amenities and public transport hubs is ideal.
“Another key issue with library buildings are their placement in immediate surrounds. The recent user and non-user survey identified that parking (or lack of) is a problem for the number of users we attract each day. Parking issues restricts the frequency and length of time users visit the libraries. Parking is also an issue for those with mobility problems. Most importantly, for all library facilities is that libraries need to be built on sites that are close to amenities, shopping, have adequate parking, now and into the future and have the capacity and flexibility to be extended or reconfigured as they need to be ‘future-proofed’.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Whilst co-location is mentioned in the discussion paper in rural communities it’s very important to locate such services including future libraries close to the focal point within a town. It’s also important in terms of access that libraries are close to the main shops and public transport hubs or stops... Location, location, location is the key to rural libraries of the future. They must be in the right spot and where possible integrating with other community facilities and services.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“Knox also faces the challenge, and ultimately the cost of, relocating branch libraries to a better location in order to maximise their usage. Currently two branches are poorly located and this is reflected in the patronage these branches generate.” Knox City Council
“Relocation of branch libraries to central locations to provide ease of access for the public, where the population is aging and there is no public transport.” High Country Library Corporation
Technology
“Technological change is resulting in a proliferation of information, new forms of media, and new means of accessing written material. Many of these changes have occurred rapidly and their consequences are hard to predict broadly across society. The ability to predict how these changes will affect government services, such as libraries, is even more difficult. This means that while the particular form of libraries in the future will be hard to predict with accuracy, it is likely to change driven by increasing technological change, along with services delivered by the National Broadband Network.”
Municipal Association of Victoria
“Council supports the notion of one collection, one website, one library card and one catalogue interface for all public library users. This will include the adoption of an RFID solution for the state, or a series of compatible solutions.”
Baw Baw Shire Council
Technology is one of the biggest challenges facing the public library sector. Library services are challenged by the need to keep abreast of the latest technology, the phasing out of old or obsolete technology, the provision and cost of technology and the risk of investing in the wrong technology.
There is an increasing expectation from patrons that librarians are technology experts and can provide technological assistance for personal devices.
Technological change is affecting both internal processes and systems and the way in which the community engages with the library.
Technology is discussed in relation to:
• library management systems and interlibrary loans
• websites
• technology in the library
• community use of technology.
Library management system
and interlibrary loans
“This [Swift Consortium], together with the State Government’s LibraryLink website, has led to a 24-fold growth in inter-library loans between Victorian libraries. Whilst this innovation creates logistical challenges, it represents a significant step forward in realising the MAC vision of a seamless / ‘borderless’ library collection across the State.”
Public Libraries Victoria Network
Several library services are using an outdated library management system or require a new system in the short to medium term. This represents a major investment for councils and regional library corporations.
“The challenge is to acquire the funding to achieve the need cycle of capital costs to have a leading edge library management system in place. In the short term, Maribyrnong City Council has provided the Library Service with the budget to upgrade our Library Management System in 2012/13.” Maribyrnong City Council
“Other Library Management Systems are investigating collaborative member databases however this is yet to be formalized. Frankston is not currently part of SWIFT as a different system is used and the costs to change present a barrier. The current set up of the Library Management System does not provide a seamless engagement with popular social media tools and these are added in a piecemeal approach. Whilst this is available it is an additional cost which is prohibitive for Frankston.” Frankston City Council
“In the next twelve months Hume City Council is also looking to invest significantly in a new Library Management System.” Hume City Council
“The Library Management system will need replacement in the medium term and options will be explored including consortia arrangements.” Brimbank City Council
“The library will review Library Management System to ensure it is appropriate for user needs, and considering the SWIFT consortia as a model.” Moonee Valley City Council
A consortium or statewide library management system is suggested and several benefits are identified, including the ability to have a single library catalogue across the state. There is also support for one library card across the state, working towards the vision of a borderless library.
“SA has just gone with the same LMS for all of SA. Why can’t Victoria? Would make one library card achievable, would do away with the need to fund LLV and would link at least 3 states resources together!” West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
“The SWIFT consortium is a step in the right direction for greater sharing of ideas and technologies; however, it needs to have more recognition within the industry, and possibly needs to be moved from the MAV into the Department for it to gain momentum and suitable status. It is currently expanding its membership base into South Australia and New South Wales and could be a vital link in developing equitable standards of electronic access across the state.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“It is worth noting that South Australia is implementing an ‘opt-in’ subsidised move to a state-wide standard Library Management System (SirsiDynix, the same as Swift) in order to get the same benefits that the Swift Consortium has achieved. The MAC may wish to consider an incentive package of funding to assist an individual library service to move towards Swift membership. This would increase the availability of their collection to the Victorian community – a way of moving to a shared library system without a state-wide mandated scheme. The shared standards of the Swift consortium members also leads into other benefits such as single membership cards, uniformity of operating rules, etc.” Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
“Consortium membership offers various advantages for libraries. Member pricing often means cost savings through mergers into larger entities, or across-system efficiencies or savings through a single library card.” High Country Library Corporation
“The consortia arrangement put in place for the development and adoption of library management systems has lead to great improvements in functionality, customer outcomes and ensured that vendor innovation is closely aligned to the objectives of library services.” Melbourne City Council
“Gannawarra Library Service has recognised the need to operate beyond local boundaries by interacting on a state-wide, and a wider geographic basis, to gain economic advantages of collaborative initiatives and has found a highly compatible solution in our partnership with the Swift Consortium, and our involvement with Public Libraries Victoria Network.” Gannawarra Shire Council
“As a member of the SWIFT Consortium, support for introduction of this innovative model across the state would be welcomed to provide seamless and equitable access.” Yarra City Council
The Swift Library Consortium increases community access to quality collections
in Victoria. It also provides collaboration opportunities and an effective library management system and website. Several submissions suggest the statewide rollout of the Swift system.
“Latrobe City is very pleased with our participation in the SWIFT Consortium. Significant cost savings along with opportunities for collaboration have all been realised. Consortium members are supportive of expanding the number of consortia members and would welcome a statewide approach similar to South Australia.” Latrobe City Council
“The Swift Consortium is a good example of libraries working together to enable purchase of a Library Management System (LMS) at an affordable price for both large and small library services. Without the consortium we would still be using an outdated LMS. The upcoming challenge, for a small library such as Swan Hill, will be covering the financial cost to go out to tender again when the current Swift contract expires. The tender process is costly and eats into small library resource budgets.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
“Being a member of the SWIFT consortium has immense advantages in providing an expanded collection to Campaspe customers. SWIFT is a highly collaborative venture that has been successful due to its sharing and development of ideas processes and resources. Within this arrangement there have been a number of positive changes for Campaspe – an upgrade of the library management system, upgrade and external management of the library website, original cataloguing processes
and access to a consortium price for e-audio books.” Campaspe Shire Council
“SWIFT helps us overcome the disadvantage of being a small remote Library Corporation. On our own we would not have the capacity to run the Library Management System Tender and obtain the level of service enhancements that we have been able to achieve since joining SWIFT.” Wimmera Regional Library Corporation
LibraryLink Victoria also increases community access to quality collections in Victoria. However, without continued government support, library services will be unable to continue its operation.
“SLIS participation in LibraryLink continues to grow at fast pace. The opportunity to share resources with other library services has been an exciting development, but requires significant resources.” Stonnington City Council
“The increase in usage of Library Link and associated costs (staff time, processing, materials) [is a challenge]. It is important that the State continues to fund Library Link and the courier service. Inter Library Loans are a highly used service in our region.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Library Link Victoria facilitates Inter-Library loans throughout the State. Greater Dandenong Library Service is also a member of the SWIFT consortium. Overall these schemes have provided access to additional 1500-1700 resources per month through other Libraries’ Collections in the 2011/12 year. Continuation of Library Link and continued State Government funding of courier costs is essential and initiatives such as this and SWIFT enhance collections on offer across public libraries.” Greater Dandenong City Council
“Sharing collections across the State with interlibrary loans provides communities with access to all Victorian public library collections. This is dependant on the continued support for Library Link and courier costs with State Government funding.” Brimbank City Council
“We make a responsible attempt to keep up [with collection standards] but without such initiatives as Library Link our community would be disadvantaged.” East Gippsland Shire Council
The courier costs associated with interlibrary loans is raised as an issue by both Swift and non-Swift library services.
“A key issue here is the movement of materials easily around the state. While the State Government does provide access to a DX Courier, the Swift library demand is far outstripping the standard DX allocation for each library. As a result of the popularity of Swift, the costs of DX shipment have escalated significantly. There is an opportunity for the Swift Libraries (and other public libraries) to sit down with Local Government Victoria to discuss options for improving the shipment of these materials to meet popular demand.” Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
“Library Link offers advantages to our library patrons in that they can place their own interlibrary loan requests, but there are associated high costs of delivery impact on either libraries’ budgets or the cost passed onto patrons for the provision of such a service. Goldfields Library Corporation welcomes the State Government’s contribution to the Library Link project. Without this contribution, the Goldfields Library Corporation would either have to reduce services or provide the service on a full cost recovery basis. We would like to have the assurance that the State Government continues to fund Library Link and the DX courier. Many libraries could not afford to run these services independently.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Ensure that the State Government continues to fund Library link and the DX courier. Many libraries could not afford to run these services independently.” Bayside City Council
Smaller library services, or those servicing small culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, viewed interlibrary loans as a way to help meet the demand for LOTE materials.
“Latrobe City Council does not have an extensive LOTE collection and relies heavily on inter-library loans to satisfy community requests.” Latrobe City Council
“Mildura Rural City Council Library Service is currently serving CALD users through Inter-Library Loans and internet services.” Mildura Rural City Council
Some library services see sharing resources across the state as detrimental to the management of their own collection.
“SWIFT is not of any interest or relevance to the Goldfields Library Corporation. Our vision, mission and primary purpose is to service our own communities first and foremost. This is particularly important as we must deal with the tyranny of distance between our service points and our communities, and the wide ranging levels of literacy throughout our region.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“The library corporation hold a strong view that library collections must be recognised as assets of Council which are purchased for their local community and that any use of them outside of that community should be at the discretion of Council. It is also recommended that state wide standards of collection funding are developed to ensure all participating libraries maintain an appropriate level of collection expenditure.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
Websites
“The Internet and web based services have become an important part of libraries and an expectation of library users. The generations growing up with technology expect things to be available immediately and online. Our challenge is to develop a website which keeps up with modern trends and innovation, meets users’ needs and allows easy access to our online resources.”
Swan Hill Rural City Council
The website is fast becoming a new library branch in its own right. The community now expects the virtual library to be accessible 24/7.
“Essential to the provision of library services is the library website and catalogue that allows for access to library functions around the clock.” Glenelg Shire Council
“The ability for library members to access the library website to look up library resources, download e-books, access online databases, and renew items has enabled better delivery of services and resources, particularly in those remote and isolated areas.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“It is also important that the accessibility to Library resources are enhanced by extensive opening hours and 24 hour access to eresources via the website.” Greater Dandenong City Council
“...a virtual 24/7 library which is housed on the ERL website, providing access to a range of community and library information services and electronic resources.” Knox City Council
“The Maribyrnong Library Service web pages (made available through the Maribyrnong City Council website) is our online library and our third busiest outlet. Only Footscray Library and West Footscray Library do more loan and renewal transactions than our website. The biggest opportunity for library services in the coming five to ten years is through web technology and offering its services through its website.” Maribyrnong City Council
“WMRLC continues to experience large increase in utilisation of visits to library website, catalogue, and loans of electronic resources, online communication and web renewals.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
Several library service websites are outdated and will require upgrading in the
short to medium term to improve online services and meet community demand. This
requires a significant investment from councils. Library services with a web presence incorporated within a council website highlight this as problematic, as it limits control of content and functionality.
“Websites are expensive to remodel and replace and rural libraries tend to persevere with a website where the architecture is out-dated and clumsy and this makes it harder for the customer to seek the required information. A state-wide website or contractor that is experienced in producing interactive websites that enhances community access, could be beneficial.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“New website, challenge for funding and resourcing continued development and ongoing currency of content.” Port Phillip City Council
“Current Webpage is dated due to lack of funds.” Mildura Rural City Council
“In common with many council run library services, Moreland City Libraries is obliged to have its website incorporated within the council website which limits its capabilities.” Moreland City Council
“We also need to develop our website and have the capacity for it to meet our industry and community expectations.” Anne Tomietto of Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
Websites need to be mobile-optimised as the use of hand-held, mobile devices increases. Online library searches need to reflect current user behaviour and should utilise one integrated search tool using a discovery layer.
“As internet search engines such as Google are widely known and used, the expectation from the public for online library resources to look and feel like Google continues to inhibit the wider use of online library references.” Darebin City Council
“Hobsons Bay is implementing a new website and discovery layer to meet the challenge where users expect a “one stop” search in their searching.” Hobsons Bay City Council
“Moreland City Council is introducing a mobile website which will facilitate access to the library system and [will] be a significant step forward.” Moreland City Council
National Broadband Network (NBN)
“The rollout of the NBN will strengthen the strategic positioning of library services. With better band width, libraries will be able to provide faster and more reliable internet access to users. This will result in an increase in the already burgeoning demand for online services within libraries.”
Public Libraries Victoria Network
The National Broadband Network (NBN) is a key factor to be considered by library services. Its real impact on how libraries operate and the services they provide is not yet clear, making planning difficult.
“The rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) is a key factor that needs to be considered in the next ten years as it rolls out across the City of Boroondara. With better band width on the public network, libraries will be able to provide faster and more reliable internet access to users as well as an increasing array of material that can be accessed online both in the library and by users at home or on mobile devices.” Boroondara City Council
“The role of public libraries in the delivery of NBN must be broadly discussed as soon as possible to ensure appropriate planning can be undertaken and peak bodies can advocate to ensure public education campaigns are undertaken.” Darebin City Council
“Access to the NBN for the community will change the way they use library services however how this will occur is unknown.” Frankston City Council
“The National Broadband Network (NBN) will allow customers faster access to online library
services. e.g. improve download time for e-books and e-audio books and other electronic resources.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
“Wyndham City Libraries anticipate that the National Broadband Network will provide improved service to Library users, but as the rollout has not occurred in Wyndham yet, benefits are still yet to be determined.” Wyndham City Council
The National Broadband Network is seen as an opportunity for libraries to improve services. At the same time, it is a challenge due to increasing community expectations and demands.
“With the NBN rollout across the Geelong region growing expectations of the community, able to gain free access in public libraries to an internet service that has great improvements, will be significant. Libraries are seen as typically having substantial IT infrastructure and expertise in physical plant and hardware, networking and software licences which with the NBN rollout will increase the challenge to meet/manage increased community expectations from their on line experiences.” Greater Geelong City Council
“...community expectation will be a considerable challenge for library services in the future. It is expected that the upcoming rollout of NBN will result in an increased demand for online services within libraries. This will increase the value communities place on their libraries by allowing faster and more reliable internet access. Free internet access is considered a core library service and this is likely to continue.” Latrobe City Council
“NBN – Not sure how this will affect our Library Service, but already there would be public expectations of fast downloading, etc. when it arrives.” Mildura Rural City Council
Several submissions state that libraries should be the first to be connected to the National Broadband Network or that libraries should play an integral part in its rollout.
“The NBN roll out is very important to the future delivery of public library services. We need assistance in advocating for NBN to be rolled out to this region and specifically to all public libraries.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“The NBN is also great for public libraries, enabling them to provide greater access and high speed internet to all users. The Goldfields Library Corporation hopes that the State Government will fully support the rollout of the NBN to all public libraries as a matter of priority, but more importantly advocate for the Federal Government to roll the NBN to those rural areas in Victoria which have the highest level of disadvantage.” Goldfields Library Corporation
In communities where the National Broadband Network will not be rolled out, or if it is unaffordable, the ‘digital divide’ will become a key issue.
“As a rural and remote area we are limited by the appalling level of broadband service that exists, until the NBN is fully developed and implemented. It is not certain that the NBN based services will be priced such that the Corporation can make full use of and provide access to them.” Baw Baw Shire Council
“The rollout of the NBN will strengthen libraries’ services as they will be able to provide faster and more reliable internet access. Libraries need to be included as early as possible in the NBN rollout. Ironically, the NBN may increase the digital divide for low income households if cost prohibits them from affording access to fast internet.” Brimbank City Council
“Many smaller communities across the Shire will have the benefits of fixed wireless NBN
services which will vastly improve the digital divide. It will make a huge impact to local industry and agriculture. The challenge lies in the staggered and lengthy process of the NBN rollout.” Campaspe Shire Council
“The National Broadband Network will hopefully address the issues with poor internet access that is a real disadvantage to people living in the remote areas of the Glenelg Shire. The ‘digital divide’ is a very real problem in this region.” Glenelg Shire Council
“A major challenge for the Shire and its residents is the lack of access to high speed communications. Currently, the Shire is not included in the NBN’s current rollout plan which not only condemns our residents to continued poor access but is potentially a major inhibitor of community sustainability.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
Technology in the library
“Technological change is of particular concern as, with the constantly changing nature of technology, it is difficult to predict what services and resources will be available and needed by the community in future. As a result, libraries of the future need to [be] nimble, versatile and fleet footed: they will need the ability to be able to respond quickly to technological changes and innovations as they unfold. They will need to be able to respond to new – presently unimagined - ways of disseminating information.”
Public Libraries Victoria Network
Improvements in, and the introduction of, new technology is changing the way library services operate. Planning for this requires resources.
“Technology has transformed the way public libraries do business, and the community’s use of technology has transformed society. To keep pace with demand and the cost of technology renewal, all of these identified aspects will impact on Yarra’s library service over the next ten years. Currency, speed, efficiency and access of technology are critical factors in the ongoing relevance and success of public libraries in the life of the community.” Yarra City Council
“Libraries need to be flexible in their capacity to adopt new technologies and scan the horizon for future technologies and developments. Accessing opportunities through new technologies requires resources as does planning for obsolesces and decommissioning of out-dated technologies.” Brimbank City Council
“New technology continues to emerge as a defining feature of future library services. The ability to be at the cutting edge of new technology will be an important part of positioning libraries as desirable, relevant and necessary public institutions into the future. A consortia arrangement applied to other areas of technology could enable the library sector to act collectively and share resources to expedite the assessment and adoption of ‘technology’ appropriate to the 21st century library service.” Melbourne City Council
“Libraries are viewed by the community as experts in new technology and IT trends. Awareness of the scope of change; and the diversity of applications and devices is a challenge for public library staff who need regular training and time to develop programs to inform the community. MPLS has committed to new technologies by creating a full time Learning Technologies Team Leader to assist this process. The rapid nature of these changes presents an ongoing challenge.” Monash City Council
“Council’s current challenge within the CRLC is simply to provide enough access to technologically based resources to meet current community demand... It is also noted that providing the hardware and software to meet the public’s expectations regarding access to technology not only places a demand on capital funds but also on recurrent funds to meet the on-going operational and maintenance requirements of the technology.” Warrnambool City Council
It is difficult for library services to keep abreast of technological change and stay ahead of the trends.
“The greatest challenge for Maribyrnong Library Service will be to keep abreast with leading edge web technology.” Maribyrnong City Council
“The key issue which faces Boroondara’s library service today, has faced it for the last two decades and will continue to face it for the foreseeable future is the constant change in technology and how we can anticipate both these changes and also what our community’s expectations will be as a result of these changes.” Boroondara City Council
“Keeping pace with technological developments [is a challenge]. Having the ability (financial), to maintain the impetus and factoring in obsolescence of equipment [is also a challenge].” Moreland City Council
“The real challenge in technology is for the Corporation to remain current with the changing formats and demands of new technology... our users expect us to keep up with technology and new services (such as eBooks), while maintaining our traditional services and collections.” Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
“Provision of services requires constant monitoring of the demographic profile of the catchment area and library clientele, as well as an awareness of technological advances relevant to libraries which place additional pressure on staff resources.” Gannawarra Shire Council
“One of the challenges of all Victorian public libraries is the ability to keep up to date with the ubiquitous range of portable mobile devices available on the market, whether it is ipads, smart phones or e-readers.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Rapidly and constantly changing technology requires the ability and investment to adapt quickly and offer new technology, and meet increasing demand for providing new formats in order to remain relevant and contemporary.” Moonee Valley City Council
“The challenges that will most affect our library in this timeframe include managing the shortening technology cycle and our ability to keep up as staff, as holders/providers of equipment and as advisors to the public.” West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
The exponential growth in the use of new and mobile technology has led to increased community demand for the provision of equipment, including tablets, ereaders and other devices. This has also led to the increased use of wi-fi and greater costs for broadband.
“Increased availability of technological and communication developments has increased the demand and expectation for provision and support by libraries, not only from those without alternative access, but also by community members and visitors embracing these technical advances.” Gannawarra Shire Council
“Demand from the community to be in forefront of assisting them in using technology, in having the latest technology available to use in a convenient, inexpensive, independent environment is becoming increasingly more important to our customers.” Mildura Rural City Council
“The use of Wi-Fi has grown exponentially since its introduction, which is also reflected in usage trends across the State of Victoria. Wi-Fi use has seen a change in the way the Library space itself is being used.” Greater Dandenong City Council
“Darebin Council is currently putting together a framework to consider IPads for loan which will encompass library services and other council departments.” Darebin City Council
“There is a need to develop regional programs to make available a range of the latest technology, such as kindles, iPads and other electronic reading devices, for library users to try, learn and perhaps borrow.” Friends of Castlemaine Library
“Increasingly technology savvy community have growing expectations about the availability of new formats and 24 hour access wherever they may be whether in a library or elsewhere.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Libraries will need to provide e-book readers for those who cannot afford to purchase the devices. It would be useful to include e-book readers as part of the collection on library shelves so people can still come in and read a book in the library, even if it is only available in electronic format.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
“The continuing speed of technological change and other improvements presents opportunities to review service options and solutions. Just as the services and programs have changed for the 21st century, so too have community expectations for the service they receive.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
“Increasing expectations by the community that latest technologies will be available in public libraries – vital to keep up with new advances and developments... Need to make new technologies accessible and freely available to all in our community. Will require sufficient IT resources to cover the ISP charges and network & communications equipment.” Wellington Shire Council
There is increasing demand for access to library services and catalogues from new mediums and devices and a growing expectation that smart phone apps are available. The development of apps for individual library services is difficult because of constrained budgets and limited internal technical expertise.
“The demand for apps is increasing and requires investment to enable development and delivery. Currently libraries are working independently to try and meet the demand. Coordinated statewide development projects would be of great benefit to public libraries.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“There is also the expectation that library and other information will be provided in a mobile-optimized format and via apps that are available for use on Apple and android devices. An implication of this and the introduction of e-resources is that expectation that library staff will be trained and proficient in both the devices and the materials and are also able to transmit these skills to the community.” Boroondara City Council
“We are also investigating the use of apps and equipment such as ipads for searching the catalogue. Apart from the obvious constraints of funding, the key challenge will be to ensure staff are able and competent to help library users with their technology needs, either through troubleshooting or running programs.” Stonnington City Council
“Users already expect mobile applications to interact with the library service. At present we have a mobile catalogue under development and hope that over time we will be able to employ an app writer to develop apps specifically for MLS.” Melbourne City Council
“Development of library apps and use of QR codes to interact with patrons via mobile devices such as smart phones and tablets... Library apps will enable the public to use these features in accessing library resources. Apps of all descriptions will need to be marketed more than ever before so mobile users will know about them in order to use them, so libraries face more marketing challenges.” High Country Library Corporation
The use of social media to engage patrons and the community is viewed as an opportunity. However, questions about the most effective use of social media and legal implications are raised.
“Social Media – how do we assist users with social media and how do we use it to enhance the customer experience and promote our services. Are there any legal issues?” Bayside City Council
“As part of a program introduced in 2010 to enhance communication with library users, Our Library was an early embracer of social media as a means of raising communication and promoting new programs and resources to the Peninsula’s online community.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
“Libraries need to be at the forefront of new social media. Not all social media is the same. Facebook; Twitter; You Tube; and Flickr are just a few examples. “One in every 5 people on earth is on Facebook. 30 billion pieces of content are shared on it monthly. Flickr receives 3000 images per minute. There are 450,000 new Twitter accounts daily. Every minute there are more than 138,000 new tweets.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Social media will have an enormous impact in the way we engage with the community. The whole concept of outreach has expanded into the online realm.” Hobsons Bay City Council
“Staff will need a greater understanding and knowledge of social media and locally created content such as that created on blogs etc.” Latrobe City Council
“Social media – staff resources needed to keep in touch with the Community in that area.”
Mildura Rural City Council
“Ongoing developments in the use of social media and online content delivery require that the DPCD guidelines be regularly reviewed and updated.” Monash City Council
“Social media is another area where collaboration could be used to set standards and quality. Rural libraries are at a disadvantage in developing such sites as Facebook, webpages etc., as compared to metropolitan organisations, they do not necessarily have the funds to seek professional assistance and guidance.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
Libraries aim to reduce the digital divide between those people who can access the latest technology and those who cannot because of cost or availability. There is a possibility that new technologies may, in fact, increase the digital divide.
“We believe we have a major role in supporting community access to technology through our facilities that may not be otherwise available to community members in our Shire. This means that we will need to be constantly evolving our service to maximise new opportunities and ensuring we have the skills to provide that access.” East Gippsland Shire Council
“The reliance on libraries to bridge the digital divide is increasing, with a growing importance to provide information literacy and learning programs.” Moonee Valley City Council
“Given the current reality, Council is concerned that the digital divide will become a greater issue over time due to financial affordability. Hence the establishment of a state wide fund to assist libraries to cover some of the annual broadband costs is requested ($2 million a year).” Baw Baw Shire Council
“The public libraries role will be to provide new and emerging technologies to people within the community who find it difficult to access them otherwise due to financial, social or geographic constraints. It will be important for libraries to continue to support low socio economic communities.” Campaspe Shire Council
“Public Libraries play a crucial role in ensuring that people from disadvantaged groups, in particular, those people from geographic areas already suffering social and economic disadvantage, are able to access information and technology, and have the skills to use them.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“In the past the digital divide has been mainly linked to low socio economic situations and disadvantage. The ageing population are about to increase the number who will experience disadvantage in society because of the digital divide. This may have huge implications for primary care if a large portion of their clients are technologically illiterate Public libraries can play an enormous role in this aspect of ageing well.” Hobsons Bay City Council
“The digital divide appears to be increasing with an ever increasing range of technological devices. There is an increased need for digital literacy programs to address this. There is also an increase in many day- to- day living processes such as bill payments and tax returns being streamed online, and various services increasing their online presence. Libraries have a key role to play in helping to overcome the digital divide.” Moreland City Council
“Libraries have an important role in providing community access to technologies that they may not be able to afford to purchase or have the knowledge or skills to access. It is important that settling communities and households with low incomes do not fall into a digital abyss.” Brimbank City Council
“As the growth in the delivery of IT resources indicates, public libraries already play a key role in ameliorating some of the disadvantage in accessing modern technologies and forms of communications. It can only be expected that the reliance on public libraries to bridge a digital divide will increase further in the future.” Municipal Association of Victoria
The digitisation of records and collections is viewed as important. However, it is costly and resource intensive, and there is a risk of digitising using formats that will quickly become obsolete (for example, CDs).
“Digital assets – The National Library of Australia is undertaking a project to digitise newspapers, but many more assets are available in local history collections. These collections should be digitised to improve accessibility but that would require skilled staff, equipment and staff time to achieve.” High Country Library Corporation
The escalating costs of providing a range of technology are in addition to existing library budgets.
“Libraries face increasing utility costs with the increase in technology use and community expectation for free access to electricity and WiFi.” Frankston City Council
“Providing the resources to purchase the hardware items that support new products, i.e. iPads and other mobile devices is currently cost prohibitive.” Campaspe Shire Council
Community use of technology
“The community use of technology in Yarra is evident in a recent Nexus survey conducted in 2011, which highlighted the take up and daily use of laptops, smart phones, internet music streaming and mp3 technology is markedly higher than benchmarked library services. Rather than diminishing the use of public library services, recent analysis elsewhere indicates this use is complementary. The capacity for improvement to public technology services at Yarra Libraries will be a significant challenge for the next decade to anticipate and realise relevant, fast, contemporary technology based services and programs.”
Yarra City Council
The community is using a greater range of technology and there is an expectation that libraries will able to support patrons using a variety of platforms and devices. The increase in the use of personal IT devices within libraries by patrons has led to an increased need for space with access to power supplies and staff training.
“The increase in community use of technology is also a challenge as our customers expect that we will always be at the forefront of emerging technology and that staff are techno savvy and can confidently help library users with their issues. However, we are challenged by the number of devices and uses. The great variety of new technology means that we must prioritise our response to demands.” Stonnington City Council
“Technology savvy community members have increasing expectations about the availability of new formats and 24 hour access on a range of devices.” Brimbank City Council
“The increase and diversity of devices and PCs patrons are now using has implications for staff skills and training as the staff are increasingly required to assist inexperienced computer users and involved in dealing with IT-related queries.” Greater Dandenong City Council
“Communities look to libraries for assistance in accessing information and free education programs. With the ever increasing changes in technology, libraries are impacted by the increasing expectation of our community to assist them in accessing and understanding technology, as it is released.” Latrobe City Council
“Post five years, we anticipate that the provision of workstations at desks will be replaced with learning hubs. This will see WiFi come to the fore. More library visitors will use their hand held devices such as smart phones, ipads and tablets.” Maribyrnong City Council
“Mobile technology is making a noticeable change to the way customers (not just members) are using the library services. Access to wifi within the library branches allows people to use the internet with their own devices.” Glenelg Shire Council
“Demand from the community to be in forefront of assisting them in using technology, in having the latest technology available to use in a convenient, inexpensive, independent environment is becoming increasingly more important to our customers.” Mildura Rural City Council
Slow, limited or no access to the Internet at home is an issue, particularly for library services in rural or regional areas and in areas where high levels of disadvantage exist. It is agreed that libraries are expected to, and should, provide access to a fast and reliable Internet service.
“There is a need for download kiosks for people who don’t have reliable, high speed or affordable personal broadband access.” Baw Baw Shire Council
“In order to meet the challenges of Community use of technology we have begun procuring tablet, ereader and other devices to familiarise staff and patrons to these technologies. This environment will include the building of capacity to support new technologies and their application to our lifelong learning services. It is recommended that a more consolidated, state-wide approach be taken to training and developing Victorian Public Library staff in these areas.” Wyndham City Council
“Provision of access to IT in libraries is vitally important for disadvantaged communities in the Geelong Region where access to broadband at home is limited. Geelong has several neighbourhoods where greater access is required.” Greater Geelong City Council
Digital literacy is a burgeoning issue and several libraries deliver technology training programs to the community to help overcome this.
“The Libraries have piloted the use of tablet devices such as iPads with the intention of commencing “drop-in” training programs in the near future... The Libraries Language and Learning programs provide free basic Internet and PC tuition in the form of small classes and drop-in support. The need to provide a greater range of digital literacy programs is high and the Library Service is currently developing a framework for such programs.” Greater Dandenong City Council
“Digital literacy is an important skill and libraries have a role in providing free internet access, instruction and help in using the technology.” Brimbank City Council
“The world of information is expanding exponentially and it is important that public libraries continue to provide reading, information and digital literacy programs to members of the community.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Moreland City Libraries currently offers very few programs in the area of digital literacy, apart from one-on-one introductory sessions to the Internet and a Seniors Internet program. Feedback from these sessions has demonstrated how wide the digital divide is, in a community such as Moreland. Many elderly attendees did not know how to use the full range of facilities on their basic model mobile phones. Others were intimidated by the range of products available and grateful for a basic introduction so they could decide for themselves whether or not they wished to engage with some
of the new technologies.” Moreland City Council
“Digital literacy is another, increasingly important aspect of literacy Public libraries have an important role to play in providing free internet access for people who cannot afford their own equipment and in providing instruction and assistance in using the internet and computer technology.” Public Libraries Victoria Network
“Hume City Council is also looking at delivering training and support, free of charge for
our community for items such as digital reading devices, tablets and other media devices.”
Hume City Council
Service delivery
“Challenges for service delivery include issues around the workforce, library courses, changes in demographics and hard to reach users. Our workforce is ageing and current library courses are unsuitable for the work now undertaken in libraries. New recruits often do not have the necessary skills to work in a library or have a misconception of what they will be doing once they work in a library. We therefore often need to recruit from other professions and, while necessary, this will ultimately undermine the value of library qualifications. Remuneration is also relatively low compared to other professions and as a result it can be hard to attract the best and the brightest into libraries.”
Stonnington City Council
Service delivery is a main focus for public libraries. Particular issues include the impact of changing community needs, the evolving nature of libraries and the way in which the sector workforce needs to adapt and respond. Several areas are highlighted as key components of effective service delivery.
These key components are:
• staffing
• training
• volunteers
• equity in access and models of service
• hard-to-reach users
• authoritative information providers.
Staffing
“The workforce required by modern public libraries is very different to a couple of decades ago. It is agreed that the trend is for greater front of house staff. Also required are a range of other skills including, customer service, training, community development, early years literacy, youth support. It is very difficult to attract and retain this diverse mix of skills. An ageing workforce and smaller pool of available graduates also presents a significant challenge.”
Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Workforce planning and development is an ongoing issue for public libraries with the skills required from staff constantly changing.”
Public Libraries Victoria Network
Maintaining a sustainable workforce is a challenge facing the library sector in the short and long term.
“Another key challenge in coming years for public libraries is workforce sustainability. Issues include the following: Defining the role of the public library staff – staff struggle to see how they can maintain their professional status with the diversity of services offered... To extend out into the community we are challenged with resourcing activities that go beyond the traditional. But the outreach is essential to reach sections of the community that have not traditionally accessed libraries who are often also the most disadvantaged.” Hobsons Bay City Council
Traditional tertiary courses are becoming less relevant and producing graduates without the necessary skills to work in the modern library.
“There is a definite shift in the skills required by public library staff which is not addressed at the tertiary education level. The importance of library staff continuing to study library qualifications remains, however it seems that the tertiary courses do not address the change in how public libraries are now used within communities.” Darebin City Council
“The library related courses do not reflect current library trends, what staff actually do or what employers or employees require. We need futurists!! Library Schools need to think more about their courses that offer the legal aspects of publishing and content creation (copyright law, privacy, ecommerce etc.), strategy, policy development, management, leadership, information technology, information management, knowledge management, social media and user developed content skills; as well as frontline customer skills that includes dealing with minority groups, rather than focussing on traditional and out-dated courses, such as subject classification and cataloguing.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“The future skill base for library staff requires a new focus for the delivery of tertiary education to the library and information industry. Library qualifications are important, however the courses available do not adequately prepare staff for the shifting role of a librarian with increasing growth of technology and program delivery.” Moonee Valley City Council
“Our workforce is ageing and current library courses are unsuitable for the work now undertaken in libraries. New recruits often do not have the necessary skills to work in a library or have a misconception of what they will be doing once they work in a library.” Stonnington City Council
New and emerging technology and a greater focus on customer service and programs have changed the roles required in libraries.
“The need for a stronger front of house staff requires personnel that have a diverse skill set including customer service, training, early years literacy, community development, youth support etc. The significant challenge is to attract and retain staff with this diverse skill set to service client needs in Geelong libraries.” Greater Geelong City Council
“The other important issue regarding workplace is the need to recognise the changing face of library service delivery, with staff needing to undertake roles that emphasis greater interaction with service users and program provision rather than the more traditional collection-based role.” Warrnambool City Council
“The diversification of technology within libraries is providing a challenge to library staff. It is difficult for library staff to acquire the knowledge and skills required to effectively and efficiently manage the diverse, complex and rapidly evolving technology needed to service community demands.” High Country Library Corporation
“As new technologies are adopted by library services, a different skill-set will be required as patrons expect library staff will be expert users and able to assist and teach them. Public libraries overall have a number of challenges in shaping a workforce with the capacity to effectively contribute to the future digital environment.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
“The increase and diversity of devices and PCs patrons are now using has implications for staff skills and training as the staff are increasingly required to assist inexperienced computer users and involved in dealing with IT-related queries. Sophisticated IT skills and ability to train individuals and small groups are key skills Library staff need.” Greater Dandenong City Council
Employing specialist staff such as community development workers, customer service officers and early childhood workers is becoming more common. Offering competitive salary packages and attracting suitably qualified staff is challenging for library services.
“Outreach literacy development, especially in areas with greater numbers of vulnerable children, is vitally important. This requires the use of specialist children’s literacy / early years staff and there are no resources to meet this need.” Brimbank City Council
“Over the next 10 years there may be a shift towards more qualified roles and a reduction in non-qualified roles in order to meet the changing role and services. This will cover areas such as marketing, community development, career development and IT.” Frankston City Council
“It has been a challenge for libraries to attract qualified and experienced staff for several years now and this issue will increase as our workforce ages. Salaries for library staff tend to be lower than other areas of local government staff for equivalent qualifications, skills and job requirements.” Melbourne City Council
“The increased use of library automation puts pressure on finite IT maintenance and support resources. It is difficult to attract high level IT personal to library positions.” Port Phillip City Council
“The Corporation is attempting to balance recruitment of staff with specialised library skills (and to provide opportunities for existing staff to upskill), with the recruitment of staff whose skills lie in networking, communication and coordination in support of program and outreach activities.” West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
“Attracting and retaining staff and finding the right people to develop and deliver services is most challenging.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
Difficulties in attracting suitably qualified staff, particularly young people, are exacerbated further in rural and regional areas because of the distance from cities and regional centres and the comparatively lower salary packages to metropolitan areas.
“Frankston has experienced difficulty attracting appropriately qualified staff perhaps due to a perception of the municipality and distance from Melbourne. This has led to a delay in filling roles and the need to advertise more widely.” Frankston City Council
“Availability of qualified staff is already proving to be a major challenge, especially attracting younger people to this remote rural area.” Gannawarra Shire Council
“Recruitment of suitable library staff is problematic due to the remoteness of this location from the major urban centres. Attracting suitable and specialised people to this region proves to be an ongoing issue.” Glenelg Shire Council
“Difficulty in recruiting and retaining qualified staff in comparison with city counterparts due to disparity in salaries. This can be offset by the lifestyle offered in some instances.” High Country Library Corporation
“Rural areas sometimes have a challenge finding staff with appropriate library qualifications or experience. New staff may have no prior library training or experience and may be trained by other staff with no formal library qualifications.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
The ageing workforce is a major challenge and strategies are required to address this.
“The library profession has an ‘ageing workforce’... Many mature aged staff have entered the profession as a career change while others have remained in the same service and position for many years.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“At GVRLC, it is our feeling is that the age profile of librarians and skilled staff is older than in many other industries. This issue needs to be addressed by developing strategies for skill development, qualification by professional development and staff rotation/succession planning on an industry basis.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“The ageing public library workforce is of considerable concern at Wyndham. It is anticipated that by 2020, fifty per cent of the Library Leadership Team will retire. It is essential that support from the State Government to fund and develop a workforce development strategy is seen as a priority. In recent times recruitment for professional positions has become increasingly difficult, with very few quality candidates applying.” Wyndham City Council
“The profession itself is declining, it is difficult to attract young, dynamic library people. There is limited advancement in the profession.” Bayside City Council
Attracting young people to the industry is challenging. Some library services are attempting to address this issue through cadetships, traineeships and work experience programs.
“A review of the current staffing structure will be undertaken and traineeship opportunities explored to assist with the staffing levels, as well as encouraging young people to join the industry.” Campaspe Shire Council
“Librarians are generally older than the average in Australia, with 60% of workers being 45 or older, compared with 35% of the total workforce. In accordance with the challenge faced across the industry, Yarra Libraries must attract the next generation of staff with professionalism, capacity and enthusiasm.” Yarra City Council
“State government support in areas such as traineeships, scholarships or other library personnel skill development programmes will support the forecast growth, retention of staff and make library career opportunities an attractive option.” Greater Geelong City Council
“There is a need to make and market Libraries as both ‘sexy’ and technologically relevant in order to attract younger people into this service delivery field.” Latrobe City Council
There is a desire for more staff overall and more staff on duty at any one time.
“Limited staffing resources as a result of the funding constraints...” Baw Baw Shire Council
“The current staffing level at the Castlemaine library is inadequate to properly resource these programs.” Friends of Castlemaine Library
“The main issue affecting our Library is staffing. At Euroa Library, we (usually) have one librarian working Tuesdays and Wednesdays and another librarian working Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturday mornings, giving the Euroa library opening hours of 4.5 days per week (with closure for a one-hour lunch break 4 days per week). Staffing issues understandably impact directly on the areas of – technology – programs - community.” Friends of Euroa Library
“With 57% of the library’s total expenditure being spent on employee costs, maintaining current service levels while minimising annual budget increases is not possible.” Yarra Plenty Regional Library
Training
“The training and professional development of staff remains a priority if innovative models of service delivery are going to be successful. While this may be an internal issue to be addressed, the professional development of staff who continue to deliver the diversity of services as provided by library staff, and which at the most basic level addresses many community needs, should be considered as a high priority.”
Darebin City Council
Providing the required training to enable staff to adapt to changing roles and community
needs is challenging due to limited staff resources and the time and financial investment required.
“Challenge for ongoing professional development support - large workgroup always a challenge to support staff skill development without negatively impacting customer service outcomes (desk rosters etc). Work needed to develop and maintain a sustainable training and development model to support service effectiveness. Also a need for more focussed training options across the sector, what is available is often unaffordable/inappropriate.” Port Phillip City Council
“Staff require ongoing training and support not only on staffing and organisational matters but in ‘customer first’ principles and practices. This training and development needs to be accessible in regional areas.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“Building a professional team with necessary skills so that out staff can better engage with community in terms of education and marketing [is a challenge].” Wellington Shire Council
“The library corporation recommends that support with the development of shared programs with other agencies and training for Library staff to facilitate new program topics would be beneficial for all library services.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
“On going professional training is critical to ensure staff continue to develop and expand their current skills and learn new skills... It is challenging to provide the range of training required to ensure that staff have the skills and capacity to be effective in a contemporary dynamic library environment.” Brimbank City Council
Training in emerging areas of technology, such as social media, is difficult to source,
as is keeping staff trained in complex technological developments.
“Training for staff to keep pace with the rapid changes in technology is an essential challenge for Yarra Libraries.” Yarra City Council
“Social networking is a growing phenomenon and to remain relevant libraries need to engage with this trend. This creates resourcing issues, particularly around staff time and expertise. Local content is particularly relevant so this is not an area that particularly lends itself to any form of centralisation. However staff training and skill sharing across Victoria would be beneficial.” Moreland City Council
“The range and complexity of technology requires regular and ongoing training and development of staff. The opportunity for cooperative training programs would be most welcome.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Traditional library processes will be reviewed, with new service delivery models and additional value added services introduced. The library corporation recommends that all library services would benefit from support and training to assist with the additional IT infrastructure requirements and the change from transactional tasks.” Whitehorse Manningham Regional Library Corporation
“The retraining of staff to accommodate an ever widening skill set required to meet community needs and developing technology whilst still maintaining key aspects of ‘librarianship’ is a constant challenge that needs to be addressed industry wide.” Hobsons Bay City Council
“The ever changing technology requires the constant training of staff in awareness and use of new technology so they can utilise the technology in service provision and/or understand the requirements of customers who come in with new devices.” Swan Hill Rural City Council
Providing training opportunities is difficult for libraries in rural and regional areas,
where the distance from training, conferences and collaboration opportunities poses significant challenges.
“Rural location is challenging to up-skill staff. A training session in Melbourne may mean a 12-14 hour day and added travel expenses for the library system... State-wide training programs such as Frontline that staff can access at minimal cost and without having to travel to Melbourne where travel and accommodation costs can quickly expend any training budgets. Such absences also impact on efficiency in the branch.” High Country Library Corporation
“Remote access to expertise, training and professional development is seen as a practical and really useful form of assistance where the realities of sending staff to Melbourne are significant with respect to cost, backfill and time.” East Gippsland Shire Council
“Staff not up to date with information as distance makes it difficult to attend training and meetings in cities. More use of Skype and video conferencing, etc. is required, particularly from those running the meetings in Melbourne.” Mildura Rural City Council
“For country libraries such as Gannawarra consideration must also be given to distance from larger provincial centres and suitable training opportunities, and the impacts on both the staff attending the training and the remaining staff where significant travel is required to attend. Resource sharing across industries, particularly with technological and communication advances, would be most beneficial particularly in rural areas.” Gannawarra Shire Council
It is suggested that statewide industry training would be beneficial to library services.
“Resurrection of the State-wide Training Calendar to create networking opportunities.”
Hume City Council
“The State Library of Victoria along with PLVN continue to succeed in the offer of relevant and innovative training, however there should be acknowledgement that general Council training courses do not necessarily meet the specific needs of public libraries.” Darebin City Council
“It is recommended that a more consolidated, state-wide approach be taken to training and developing Victorian Public Library staff in these areas.” Wyndham City Council
“Library service delivery is strengthened by collaboration with the Public Library Network Victoria (PLVN) and the State Library of Victoria (SLV). PLVN has a range of constituent Special Interest Groups and run seminars and workshops during the year to keep library staff up to date with new developments and current topics. The State Library of Victoria provides seminars and manages state-wide projects that support collaboration, evidence based service delivery and strategic planning for public libraries.” Brimbank City Council
“The continued support of the State Government in relation to professional development and training, chiefly through the State Library, is critical to the public library’s ability to support the community in accessing library and related services.” Monash City Council
“Statewide approaches for training and development of staff as per current programs through State Library and Public Libraries Victoria Network, support for marketing of libraries in order to reach non-users, and development of best practice models for service delivery.” Moonee Valley City Council
Volunteers
“Glenelg Libraries enjoys assistance from volunteers in providing regular services. This can provide local people with a means to comply with government assistance requirements, helps people gain experience for future work prospects, and assists the library in completing some of the daily tasks.”
Glenelg Shire Council
Attracting volunteers and providing meaningful volunteering opportunities are difficult for many library services. The retiring Baby Boomer generation is viewed as an opportunity for libraries as it may increase access to a growing volunteer base.
“Better utilisation of volunteer groups, not just fundraisers; get them out in the community or in the library promoting literacy and our services instead.” West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation
“A state wide volunteer program would encourage and support the use of volunteers and allow effective partnerships to grow and develop.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“Look to volunteers to bring diversity and new skill sets... Wimmera Volunteers assist us to encourage volunteer placement in libraries.” Wimmera Regional Library Corporation
“Some [baby boomers] may also be actively seeking volunteering opportunities to utilise their skills and services to assist others.” Moreland City Council
“YPRL has almost 300 volunteers engaged in various activities, programs and tasks which we could not deliver without their assistance. The number of volunteers is up as baby boomers reach retirement age and are seeking meaningful ways to contribute to their local community.” Yarra Plenty Regional Library
There is an increasing demand for, and growing importance of, volunteers in libraries
to support the delivery of outreach services.
“Frankston utilises volunteers to assist in delivery of some services such as Home Library Service and some tasks within the library which would not otherwise be able to be delivered.” Frankston City Council
“796 visits are made by home library volunteers to housebound residents who can’t get to the library themselves.” Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation
“The Home Library Service model has changed from staff delivery of materials to delivery by volunteers.” Brimbank City Council
“An ageing population will require a greater range of lifelong learning programs and potentially volunteer opportunities to maintain reading and information literacy in older residents.” Greater Dandenong City Council
“Aging population and providing home library services for an increasing aged population. Making use of the retired baby boomers as volunteers to deliver some of these programs.” Bayside City Council
“As a retirement area of choice the Shire’s aging population is expected to more than double over the next decade. This will further intensify current demands and expectations on public library services, particularly in the area of Home Library Services where demand currently outstrips supply of volunteers to deliver books and materials to isolated housebound residents and those in care facilities.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
“Campaspe has a strong local volunteer base to support programs such as Books on Wheels, Words on Wheels and Adult Literacy. Without the use of volunteers Council would not be able to provide them.” Campaspe Shire Council
Equity in access and models of service
“The scale and dispersed nature of our library operation means that the library resources we have are shared across the entire service. Even though we are able to maximise our impact to the community in this way, the reality is that we need to work hard to achieve an equitable distribution of resources.”
East Gippsland Shire Council
Library patrons should receive the same level of access to library services regardless of where they live within a municipality or the state.
“FOCAL agrees with the statement on equity of access and repeats the disadvantage experienced by regional libraries due to the lesser funding compared to metropolitan library services... FOCAL believes that the level of service should be the same across all library services. Increased funding in regional services would significantly address the existing inequity that privileges metropolitan library services.” Friends of Castlemaine Library
“Public libraries will be thrust into competing with the ever changing electronic media and information networks to maintain relevance over the next ten (10) to thirty (30) years. Libraries need to provide digital access and services right across Victoria to the same standard and quality that is available in the cities.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“Within rural communities there are still issues of equity of access due to the quality and availability of new technical advances. The public libraries role will be to provide new and emerging technologies to people within the community who find it difficult to access them otherwise due to financial, social or geographic constraints. It will be important for libraries to continue to support low socio economic communities.” Campaspe Shire Council
Several different library models of service are used across Victoria. The introduction of new technologies and changes in the way the community interacts with the library are leading to new models being developed.
“Collaboration across state boundaries should be further investigated and potentially offer enhancements and increased benefits to all users. Different models are in place across all Australian states. In the short term, investigation into the benefits and challenges of each model should be undertaken to identify a sustainable model for implementation.” Latrobe City Council
“Service models – changing requirements with RFID provides opportunities for increased delivery of programs and services. This requires evaluation and review of staffing and service models to ensure the right skills and structure is in place to offer new services.” Moonee Valley City Council
There is a growing expectation and desire from the community for libraries to operate after hours and on weekends. This presents challenges due to limited budgets and increased staff costs.
“A study of Yarra Libraries opening hours conducted in 2010 demonstrated a need for extending opening hours, particularly on weekends.” Yarra City Council
“Opening hours – costs for opening hours on weekends are prohibitive due to penalty rates, however weekends are very popular with and sought by the community.” Moonee Valley City Council
“Limited weekend opening hours represent a major service gap confronting Our Library. It is recognised that in an increasingly time-poor society, physical access to the local public library is more and more dependent upon weekend opening.” Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
Hard-to-reach users
“There are still many sections of the community who don’t access libraries and some who don’t know they exist and what services they have to offer. There needs to be a greater marketing of public libraries as safe and exciting environments that people can come to.”
Moreland City Council
Attracting young people and hard-to-reach users to the library is difficult. Libraries identify the need to engage this group but lack the resources or capacity to do so.
“A challenge which remains for public libraries is the ongoing question about how to engage with hard to reach communities.” Darebin City Council
“The opportunities, resources, and services available at public libraries are not always well known and it is the responsibility of the library staff to ensure promotion is maintained. Providing relevance to a diverse population across a large geographic area is an ongoing challenge for library staff. It is especially challenging to engage with the more vulnerable families, young people and active baby boomers in the Glenelg Shire.” Glenelg Shire Council
“As mentioned, we have many small and hard to reach communities. Socio economic communities with low literacy levels are often difficult to attract to libraries. While the Corporation is developing strategies to address library and literacy needs, the distance between these pockets of groups makes it logistically difficult and very expensive to run.” Goldfields Library Corporation
“[A] team has been established to engage with the hard to reach members of the community. We have also employed a Youth Engagement Officer, who works and delivers programs specifically for youth across our two major libraries and does not come from a formal library academic background.” Hume City Council
“Council has identified the need to review its mobile library service, to consider how it can better meet the needs of its ageing population and how it can connect with hard to reach users and non users.” Knox City Council
“Whilst our children and youth programs are well established GVRLC is also designing programs for young adults who are traditionally hard to engage.” Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation
“It is hard to offer value to younger people when they see the patrons and collection geared to an older community and the online presence and services are not in line with current trends to encourage them to participate ‘virtually’.” Baw Baw Shire Council
Authoritative information providers
“Many people use the internet without a second thought about the accuracy of the information they are reading. An important role of the library is to provide and promote access to accurate information via the internet.”
Swan Hill Rural City Council
Library services view themselves as independent and trusted information providers. They play an important role in assisting the community to access, navigate and evaluate relevant information.
“Library staff have always been advisers to help people gain access to the information and resources they need. Today, with changed formats and media, that fundamental role hasn’t changed: library staff still play an important role in assisting the community to adjust to new formats and access information through new and different media. In modern libraries, significant staff time is taken up assisting people to find information in new formats and navigate their way through increasingly complex technological media, rather than in providing information directly in traditional published forms as in the past.” Public Libraries Victoria Network
“Information is flooding in of varying degrees of quality. As professionals we need to ensure that our users are getting the right information for the right purpose (quality, correct information). This is a bit tricky when the internet allows anyone to create content on the web.” Bayside City Council
“Our experiences have highlighted that children and adults in our CALD demographic cannot develop their analytical and communication skills by simply relying on e-books and the internet. They need librarians and other staff to contextualise what they choose and learn off the internet.” Hume City Council
“Library staff are viewed as trustworthy sources of information. The advent of the world wide web has put access to information within the reach of everyone. However libraries need to maintain their role as gatekeepers of knowledge. This is a major challenge for library staff.” Moreland City Council
“The point of difference offered by public libraries is the expertise they offer the community to access and navigate their way through an increasingly complex information environment.” Geelong Regional Library Corporation
“Libraries have the most fantastic opportunity to lead and facilitate the creation of content. They will not just be the keepers and providers of information but the enablers of creating it. Libraries have to be in charge of it, librarians have to be seen as the experts, therefore library staff must be appropriately trained.” Campaspe Shire Council
Community contributions
We asked the community:
What do you like about the books, magazines and other items you can access at your library?
The community likes:
A free collection with a broad range of up-to-date material. New books and classic literature in both printed and ecollections. A collection catering to different age groups and interests and historical collections. The library’s willingness to obtain new books and materials and the ability to access items from other library services via the interlibrary loan service.
• “There is a wide range of reading material. The libraries are responsive to requests from the readers to purchase new titles. Often you pick up a book that you would not see or think of buying and it opens your vision of the world; allows you to see new perspectives and other people’s points of view.”
• “There’s a range of fiction and non fiction books I can access that are new releases as well as older maybe not as popular books that can be borrowed. I also love that I can put books on hold from other library and it will be delivered to my local library. I think this is fantastic and have used this facility. I also think it’s great that the library provides reading materials in other languages especially for the high migrant area I live in.”
• “The wide variety of items through swift such as books, DVDs, talking books etc. which now includes ebooks.”
• “I like that they are free, everyone has equal access to them. I love the idea of people learning, exploring and learning for themselves in an enjoyable way.”
• “I enjoy the children’s books, my son is just learning to read by himself and we have a good selection for him at our library. My daughter is a teenager who enjoys reading a lot and I am able to find some of the books she reads in class at our library. I am passionate about reading too, a book every 2 days. Thank goodness for libraries.”
• “There is variety and access to titles that I may not consider buying for myself but I can browse and see. All areas of mine and my families interests are covered so there is no need to walk away empty handed.”
• “The up-to-date extent of the range. The excellent, no-fee, way I can put things on reserve/hold. The range (books/mags/DVDs/CDs/ebooks/downloadable items) that I can easily access.”
We asked the community:
What do you want to see in your future library for the books, magazines and other items you can access?
The community wants:
More books, ebooks, LOTE books, large print books and access to high-quality databases. Access to audio books, ebooks, movies and music at any time of the day. The library to remain free, greater access to space, computers for online reading and the ability to borrow ereaders.
• “More of the same, with extra e resources - ebooks and databases.”
• “I think we need to look to the future and have more access to things like ebooks and the like, but not dismiss the fact that books will still have a place in libraries, some libraries seem to be downsizing collections and replacing them with online collections, I’m not sure this is the answer, I think we need both, and will continue to need both.”
• “Smoother access to eaudio books via my mobile device. The current process is laborious and clunky. Also a better range in digital formats.”
• “An extensive e-library that allows patrons to use their logins and passwords to borrow books online.”
• “More of everything please.”
• “ebooks, learning, access to online databases...”
• “Continued free access for all.”
• “I’d like that the library could have more Ebooks, and more other language kind of books and magazines, for our country is a multicultural one.”
• “The next step I guess is expanding online borrowing of audio.”
• “Easier access for inter library loans - current system too slow.”
• “While I prefer to read a book, I can imagine that many people will start to prefer to read online - so they will need extra computer screens, tablets, etc.”
• “Free access to research and historical information, I want to also see “books’ in paper and print. I understand E-books are becoming popular but I prefer books to reading on a device as I get sore eyes from this.”
• “I want to have free access in the future, l want print copies not digital.”
• “More online journals. The eaudio books are not so good for me. I enjoy the audio books on CD as I think the downloading of the ebooks is still quite tricky (and I’m fairly computer savvy!)”
We asked the community:
What do you like now about your library building or mobile library?
The community likes:
That it is centrally located, near public transport, and close to shops and free parking. The welcoming atmosphere and a library building that is spacious, bright, filled with natural light and with clearly defined areas. Libraries that are clean with good access to toilets and sitting areas. Changing displays, reliable wi-fi, up-to-date new technology and a positive library environment.
• “Great lighting and seating. The mobile library is close to school and the librarian helps the kids with book choices.”
• “Well set out. Easy to navigate. A wide range of resources to borrow. Good technology for a range of purposes.”
• “Good balance of new technology, hard copies of reading materials, space to sit and read in community environment.”
• “It is in a good location with good opening hours and a good selection of titles.”
• “That it’s a community hub - whenever I visit (usually once a week) I can see a range of people in the library & family groups especially on Saturdays.”
• “Our library building is the pits, white ant, cold in winter, hot in summer, no room for group discussions or activities, if it weren’t for the wonderful staff, there would be less borrowers.”
• “Easy access in a good location.“
• “New and modern central location.”
• “Friendly staff in mobile library. Book, magazine, CD and movie sections set out clearly.”
• “I like that there are so many windows and lots of natural light. I like the feel of the children’s area with couches, some stackable plastic tables, comfy floor cushions, interesting bookshelves and boxes. I like it how it is, not imposingly silent, but open and welcoming and relaxing.”
• “Mobile library in our area is well supplied with resources, and a friendly staff.”
• “Location, ambience, modern facilities such as good meeting rooms, good natural light.”
• “Not a lot - it is a refurbished kindergarten which you can tell is not purpose built as a library. It is good that there is at least a kids reading area.”
• “I love visiting my library as it is a community hub and an inspiring place to spend time.”
• “The library is very welcoming and always changing, keeping up with technology.”
We asked the community:
What do you want to see in your future library building or mobile library?
The community wants:
Community hubs that are bigger with multi-use space that can provide community meeting areas, secure children’s areas and clean toilets on-site. More use of outside space for reading areas, better signage, greater disability access and, for new buildings, the use of environmentally sustainable design. More areas for quiet study away from noisy program activities and more mobile libraries operating more frequently with a greater number of stops.
• “Meeting rooms, space for community exhibitions, space for community workshops, brochure holders and lots of them.”
• “Bigger space, segregated areas, onsite parking, link to other community facilities.”
• “More specifically designated spaces, e.g. - quiet paces, tech pods, audio and sound booths, areas to relax and read, cafe.”
• “I would like the library to have more outdoor spaces, more visible from the outside, I would like to see the activity in the library, I would like to see other community and learning activities around the library, interactive video screens and video conference facilities that allow virtual interaction.”
• “Increased hours for mobile library.”
• “Vibrant buildings with plenty of open spaces, study rooms, computer rooms, easy access for all members of the community, excellent parking and clear signage.”
• “More reading nooks, more online access, more books on shelves...”
• “Perhaps when designing new buildings, they could be “green” and designed ecologically and there could be more use of natural light and natural outlooks rather than the dark and dingy image that some libraries evoke.”
• “Environmentally friendly buildings, good parking, multi use spaces e.g. quiet study areas plus places to use video & audio.”
• “I think we have a need to create a dedicated quiet space for people to study. While libraries are becoming more public and interactive with activities and things there are still people who need to use libraries as a place to study, learn or work and this can be quite hard in the building our library is in.”
• “More mobile library or more drop off/pick up spots.”
We asked the community:
What do you like now about the computers and other technology you can access through your library?
The community likes:
Computers, software and other technology that is well-maintained with free access to wi-fi and Internet to address the digital divide in the community. Self check-out systems, photocopiers, printers, access to ebooks and free access to the library online from home through the library website.
• “Internet access to audio books, ebooks, reference materials, periodicals is absolutely wonderful. I love internet access to the catalogue, online reservations.”
• “They are free and there are lots of them. WiFi could be better. Introduction of the NBN gives even more possibilities. Lots of access to free databases. Would like more access from home.”
• “Rarely use the computers, access collection from home, visit to collect, to see a special event, occasionally ask advice but the staff seem to be less skilled in this.”
• “Booking system. Self check out. Wifi.”
• “I think that it is good that it provides access to technology for those who might not otherwise be able to use it. I also frequent their website, and am very impressed by it.”
• “I actually don’t use the computers in the library. When I was unemployed I used the photocopiers - very handy for printing as well. However the photocopy system was complex - although it did work. So for me the technology I value is pretty low key - i.e. acess to printers and photocopiers.”
• “I like that we can access ebooks, magazines and audio books.”
• “Up to date. The self check-out system is a sign of progress.”
• “I like the mix of PCs and WIFI. I use eaudio books and databases. I like accessing my account from home.”
• “The computer system is fantastic and I wish to see it continue to keep up to date as technology advances.”
• “Haven’t used the computers and the search engines available via the website can be confusing.”
• “Free access, like that I can access catalogues from home and renew books.”
• “I don’t use the computers. Having an online catalogue is great.”
• “The technology is good, especially being able to access catalogue and borrowing services via internet from home. I was sad when self checkout was introduced, as I liked the chat with the staff. Kids use wifi at times, and can be really useful when home computer has an internet issue and assignments need to be researched.”
• “I don’t use this much but I think it’s very valuable for people who don’t have regular access to computers and the internet, or means to buy DVDs and CDs to listen to different things.”
We asked the community:
What computers and other technology do you want to see in your future library?
The community wants:
More computers, both Apple Mac and PC, and laptops provided in the library. Longer access times, as well as the ability to borrow iPads and ereaders, either within the library or to take home. More power points for personal devices, as well as download stations for patrons to plug in their own devices and download ebooks and audio books.
More sharing of resources between libraries through an improved interlibrary loan search tool. Better online catalogue facilities and greater access to databases and online magazines from home. Reliable and fast broadband and a faster, simplified catalogue system. Exploration of National Broadband Network opportunities and mobile apps.
• “Hire out laptops, computers with large screens suitable for older members of the community, consistently upgrade software so that it is current, improved printing facilities (always playing up), easy to use equipment.”
• “IPads to borrow or use in the library, more adaptive technology, the latest software installed, scanning facilities.”
• “Up to date computers, fast downloading capacity, scanners, virus protection, able to book a computer for more than just one hour per day.”
• “Charging stations, more reliable WiFi, mobile devices (e.g. iPad) available for loan.”
• “Ability to browse multiple council library catalogues and event listings from a central hub. Access stations that expose people to developments and resources. But not at the expense of print collections.”
• “More modern computers. Photo and video editing software. Faster network access. Ability to connect iPods and e-readers to download e-books.”
• “Need more “laptop” plug in ports - that is, pods of single-person desks with a power point per desk that allow a person to plug their laptop in and access the wireless.”
• “More electronic catalogues in the library buildings; access to internet should be provided anywhere and not just in a specified area in the building; no more open-air computer labs in the middle of the floor space - rather, WiFi and ‘loanable hardware’ that you can register/use on-site in the library from any location.”
• “E-book borrowing pods for iPhone, Kindle, and other readers. This will be important if libraries are to keep up with increasingly tech savvy users.”
• “Modern computers and a good number of them. Could complement with a couple of MACs and or computers with adobe graphics programs.”
• “Maybe a more diverse set of programs for the public to access; free or cheap classes in using the programs; lots of pc’s and maybe a couple of MACs with design programs.”
• “Technology with screen readers or enlargement software for vision impaired.”
• “ereaders to be available on loan; more up-to-date computers with faster download speeds; more photocopiers; better digital viewing of catalogues, more electronic magazines.”
We asked the community:
What do you like about the services provided by your library now?
The community likes:
The staff who are friendly, knowledgeable and expert; the personal interaction, assistance and recommendations received from librarians. Community events and programs that increase literacy and inclusion in the community including author talks, Story Time, IT training and homework clubs.
• “The library is very much a community hub with the story times, book clubs, author talks and other activities.”
• “Knowledge, friendliness and availability of the (excellent) library staff.”
• “Our local library is an inviting space with very helpful people. The librarians make a significant contribution to the library being a knowledge hub.”
• “The library it’s resources and staff provide great service to all comers from babies to the elderly, new arrival, the down and out the recently retired the new mums, the troubled in spirit, the health challenged - many find answers and solace, information and entertainment with the local public library. I like the space, the colour, the cultural events, the meeting place and the meeting of minds that happens in the local library.”
• “Friendly, knowledgeable staff who love books and the regulars like me.”
• “It provides training and other programs for kids and adults alike.”
• “Fantastic spread of material, topics and format coverage. Something for everyone in the family. Committed, interested and knowledgeable staff to help with access and ideas, pleasant and useful community spaces catering to all needs. Reasonable opening hours (though of course would prefer greater access!). While I no longer participate I love the story times offered, the book groups, readings and guest speakers offered which strengthen the community and provide a focus to our local community.”
• “The opening hours which make the library accessible 6 days a week. Computer availability for people who need it. Anything which encourages children to explore and enjoy books.”
• “Computer training, home library service, inter-library loan service.”
• “I go the library to find a quiet and conducive space for reading, research, study! Some are like noisy clubs.”
• “The self service is great but it’s important to have enough Library Staff to help with things also, so don’t get rid of any more staff!”
• “I like the interaction with the librarians and their helpful service.”
We asked the community:
What services do you want see in your future library?
The community wants:
An increase in the number and types of training, community events, author talks and programs delivered free of charge. More spaces for community organisations to use, cafés, increased opening hours and more frequent mobile library services.
More staff in general and, in particular, more staff trained to assist with technology. Increased home library services, more access to LOTE material and easier after hours drop-off and pick-up options.
• “I like it to be more a community hub where there is a cafe, meeting rooms for groups, like the old style village green.”
• “More training for computers, a scanner, more private cubicles for study (with power-points, if you want to use a computer). Please don’t go down the path, like university libraries I’ve seen, where everyone lounges around & it’s hard to find anywhere private to work/study!”
• “A Book Cafe - i.e. an actual cafe within the library, separated from the Library area by a glass partition to create a separate area for each - but all within the library itself.”
• “More study area, a cafe for patrons.”
• “Book club, enewsletter updating members on new books, authors to try and upcoming events.”
• “More of the same please. LOVE the library. My husband also uses the ‘mobile library’ at Frankston train station which is a great help. Love programs like their homework club etc too and computer lessons for seniors and internet access for people who can’t afford these things at home.”
• “After-hours pickup” kiosks that allow you to collect items that you have requested (the service would need to be booked) and have a PIN code to collect items.”
• “Faster, more reliable wi-fi, e-books, adult community and cultural events, a space for exhibiting art.”
• “I want to see my library become more of a community hub. The place where you go to get information on a range of things, not just in book form. I also see the library as the logical place for information from government departments.”
• “More self checkout machines - and quicker too, the ones in place now and quite slow, Melbourne City library seems to have a much quicker system. I would also like to see a cafe in the Malvern library, there is nothing close by and a small cafe would be somewhere to relax and enjoy a book or magazine.”
We asked the community:
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your library today or what you want to see in your future library?
The community says:
They love the library, librarians and programs. Libraries are an important meeting place and a wonderful community resource. Libraries make them feel connected; they value the access to knowledge, learning and literacy programs, and human interaction. Hard-copy books are still important in the age of ebooks. It’s important for libraries to remain free and accessible to all.
• “The events, collections and staff are all wonderful. The physical spaces are a bit old fashioned but the staff have tried to make things bright and welcoming and seem to have done a good job on what I assume is a limited budget. I would strongly oppose any diminution of our library services. They are a real boon to our community.”
• “I think libraries are great. Reading is the most wonderful skill to have - it can take you to other countries or other worlds, back in time or into the future, teach you about cultures far away, or help you learn about something right in front of you. Reading is a skill you will never regret learning, and libraries are the place where that is fostered and nurtured and grown. Librarians are amazingly knowledgeable and are always ready to help.”
• “My children and me love going to the library. It was a place to get to know some of the community when we arrived in Australia. It is still a very important meeting place for us.”
• “I think it is a wonderful community focal point that makes me feel connected to the community. I also feel very thankful to have access to an extensive print and audio collection. I hope the principle of free and accessible information continues into the future.”
• “We are fortunate to have a great library with many varied activities, good meeting rooms and many programs. A fantastic community asset, available to all.”
• “I feel very lucky to be able to access all the items. I have not been well so the library has been my salvation.”
• “The librarians are fantastic--always friendly, always helpful, and they know how to get things done, whether it’s finding something or helping answer questions/settle confusions.”
• “It’s wonderful to be able to walk in to such a welcoming and well resourced building and know that you have access to everything that is in there.”
• “I’d like to see the same or more quantity and variety of hard copy books and magazines available.”
• “I can see [the library’s] value in my community, as every time I drive past it I see it is always busy and is open late. I feel very proud of it, as it has made itself accessible to so many different people in the community. And because it’s always so busy, I think this shows you how important the library is to this local community.”
• “More displays of current material that excite to borrow just like a book shop.”
• “Our library is a fantastic resource in the community and should be supported to be able to continue to provide service in the community. “
• “Growing up, the local library was a safe and educational place which produced a love of words. I hope this tradition continues.”
• “Love the library, it is a great community resource and is important for everyone.”
• “I love the library and go once a week. I think the library is about so much more than getting books, etc. Its one of the few free public places you can go and be with other people - be out in the world. I think this is going to become an increasingly more important function of the library.”
• “The library is such a wonderful community resource, it’s so valuable to people from all walks of life. It creates a haven, a free space, a community place to catch up with others. A place to get knowledge and learn at your own pace. Libraries are pleasure palaces and should be loved and cared for. “
• “I truly believe that all the different library networks in Melbourne can be unified into one coherent “Melbourne Library”. I have more library cards than dollar notes in my wallet.”
• “The librarian makes all the difference. There is no point having the best technology or resources if you don’t have a great librarian to support the technology or the community to use the technology!”
• “Love the library, it is a great community resource and is important for everyone.”
• “We are just so fortunate to have a fantastic library service available free to the local community - long may it last!”
• “For sustainability and maximum usage, I believe multipurpose facilities, integration and good location (i.e. easily accessible by various transport modes and easily accessed during shopping/school/daily trips are vital.”library.”
• “Given they are all part of a state wide and world wide communications system, to spend what money is available on mainly community and communication facilitation, supporting an evening out in technology equality, but saving money where duplication is unnecessary. E-books may be the way to go for the future, reducing deforestation, so to facilitate such access to all.”
• “The library is a wonderful place for people of all ages.”
Appendix 4
Today’s Library Report
Introduction
SGS Economics and Planning (SGS) was engaged to gather data and prepare a report summarising the current state of Victorian public libraries to provide the Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) with a benchmark statement of their services, programs and operation.
Data for the project was drawn from the Annual Survey of Victorian Public Libraries (published by the Public Libraries Victoria Network) and the Australian Public Libraries Statistical Report 2009-10 (published by the State Library of Queensland). This was supplemented by a survey of Victorian public libraries undertaken by SGS, to which 32 Victorian library services responded.
Collections, resources and programs
In 2011, Victorian public libraries stocked an average of 1.84 physical items per capita – a decrease from 1.96 in 2007. The report notes that:
• non-metropolitan libraries tend to hold a larger stock (2.08 items per capita) than metropolitan services (1.66)
• other Australian jurisdictions hold similar levels of stock, except South Australia (which holds approximately 2.8 items per capita)
• expenditure on collections by Victorian public libraries was $5.70 per capita in 2011 – up from $4.90 in 2007. This was higher than New South Wales, but lower than other states including Queensland and South Australia
• the average physical collection item was turned-over 5.13 times in 2011
• 56% of the total physical stock in 2011 was less than five years old, with metropolitan libraries having a comparatively newer stock (63% of items purchased in the past five years) compared with non-metropolitan libraries (47%).
The provision of ebooks and eaudio books remains relatively modest compared with printed material. In 2011, libraries subscribed to an average of 3.3 ebooks and 7.2 eaudio books per 1000 people served. Almost all library services with electronic resources available procure at least some of those resources themselves, with approximately two-thirds also participating in consortia purchasing arrangements.
Approximately half of all metropolitan library branches now use radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, while the proportion is considerably lower for non-metropolitan branches (15%).
Victorian public libraries offer a range of programs, extending from homework clubs and Internet training to home library services.
Story-time programs are the most commonly provided program, being offered by all responding library services. On average, 101 story-time sessions are held per branch per year, with an average participation of 3577 people per branch per year.
Home library services are offered by 75% of library services, while around 70% offer reading programs and/or book clubs and personal computer and Internet training. However, the average number of participants in these programs is a small fraction of those participating in Story Time programs.
Library buildings
The number, type and size of branches provided by library services vary significantly across Victoria. Based on the survey undertaken by SGS:
the average Victorian library service has six static library branches and 0.6 mobile libraries
47% of library buildings have less than 500 sqm of floorspace, and only 10% are larger than 1500 sqm
the average library branch serves approximately 24,000 people, with significant variation between metropolitan branches (34,500 people) and non-metropolitan (10,200).
Nearly half of all libraries provide exhibition and display spaces. The same percentage has meeting rooms as part of the library. Metropolitan libraries are far more likely than non-metropolitan libraries to have these facilities.
Maternal and child health and child care services are the most common service co-located with libraries in a ‘community hub’.
Technology
The total number of personal computers in Victorian public libraries per 1000 head of population increased from 0.48 in 2007 to 0.55 in 2011. The majority of these personal computers now provide Internet and email access.
The number of hours booked for personal computer use also increased, from 1.58 million hours in 2007 to 2.3 million hours in 2011.
More than half a million items were shared among Victorian public libraries in 2011 through interlibrary loans.
Service delivery
In 2011, Victoria’s public library services were delivered by 32 single council services and 12 regional library services.
In 2011, Victorian public libraries employed 0.35 full-time equivalent staff per 1000 head of population. Staffing levels were observed to be higher than in New South Wales and Queensland, but lower than in Western Australia and South Australia.
Approximately 48% of the population of Victoria is a member of a library service, with this average higher for metropolitan services (54%) than non-metropolitan (41%). This is a higher proportion of the population than in other jurisdictions, except South Australia where 53% of the population is a member of a public library service.
Operations and funding – interstate comparisons
The final section of the report provides a high-level comparison between Victoria’s public library sector and other jurisdictions in relation to:
• procurement of physical resources
• procurement of electronic resources
• the management of collections
• resource sharing
• funding.
Procurement of physical resources
Victorian public library services manage their own physical library collections using a mixture of collaborative purchasing arrangements and individual arrangements with suppliers.
Similar procurement models are used in Queensland and New South Wales, although in New South Wales cooperative arrangements are in place for both languages other than English (LOTE) materials and materials for country libraries.
In South Australia, 85% of physical resources are purchased centrally by the Libraries Board based on the choice of individual library services. The Board also purchases LOTE collections in 20 languages and facilitates the movement of these across the state. The State Library of Western Australia procures a major proportion of collections for large library services, while smaller country services use a centralised purchasing arrangement.
Procurement of electronic resources
Electronic resources are purchased by Victorian library services through various consortia and individual purchasing arrangements. Public Libraries Victoria Network (PLVN) has negotiated statewide access to a number of databases.
In New South Wales, some electronic resources are purchased through the State Government and provided to library services free of charge, with libraries purchasing other resources individually.
The State Library of Queensland has negotiated statewide contracts to purchase electronic resources, with access to these resources funded by individual library services.
Both the Libraries Board of South Australia and the State Library of Western Australia procure and fund several statewide subscriptions.
Management of collections
Library services in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland manage their own collections within their policies and priorities. Swift Library Consortium members in Victoria and New South Wales have access to centralised catalogues.
South Australia is implementing a single library management system with a unified catalogue, while the State Library of Western Australia maintains a union catalogue of items held across the state.
Resource sharing
Public libraries in all jurisdictions share resources with other library services. In Victoria, the cost of transporting materials between library services is subsidised by the State Government.
The State Library of New South Wales administers interlibrary loans and meets 50% of the cost of moving items between services. Similarly, interlibrary loan requests are facilitated by the State Libraries of Queensland and Western Australia. In South Australia, the Libraries Board meets the cost of transporting materials between library services.
Funding
Local government provides the majority of funding for public library services in Victoria, with the State Government providing operational funding through Local Government Victoria. Similar arrangements exist in New South Wales, with operational funding provided through the State Library of New South Wales.
In Queensland, approximately 92% of funding is provided by local government, with the balance provided by the State Government through the State Library. Seventy per cent of the state funding is required to be used for purchasing materials.
In South Australia, local government provides approximately 75% of total funding. The balance is provided by the State Government through the Libraries Board, with the requirement that 55% of that funding be spent on stock.
Appendix 5
Future Trends
Public Library Report
Introduction
A key requirement of the review of Victorian public libraries by the Ministerial Advisory Council on Public Libraries (MAC) was to undertake an evaluation of future directions and trends that may influence, challenge or provide opportunities for Victorian public libraries to deliver services that meet the needs of diverse communities.
The objectives of this evaluation, the Future Trends Public Libraries Report, aligned closely with some of the objectives of the Victorian Public Libraries 2030 Project being undertaken by the State Library of Victoria (SLV) and the Public Libraries Victoria Network (PLVN).
The two key objectives that aligned formed part of the first stages of the Victorian Public Libraries 2030 Project. They were:
• Identify global trends that may impact public library services into the future (2030).
• Explore alternative futures, identify tipping points and devise strategic responses to perceived trends.
It was agreed that the MAC should work in partnership with SLV and PLVN to deliver the first stages of the Victorian Public Libraries 2030 Project in order to meet the objectives of the Future Trends Public Libraries Report.
A tender process was undertaken in early 2012 and a strategic foresight consultancy, Chasing Sunrises, was awarded the contract to undertake the full Victorian Public Libraries 2030 Project, and to prepare a report for the MAC on future trends relevant to public libraries.
Methodology
The Victorian Public Libraries 2030 Project process was based on the belief that positioning public libraries for the future relies on two things:
• an informed perspective of plausible futures
• a broad sense of identity that allows public libraries to attach relevance to these futures.
To answer the questions, What is a public library? In 2012? In 2030?, a collaborative approach was designed that included a series of workshops involving 80 public library employees from across Victoria.
Workshop 1
explored what might be the established and emerging community values, attitudes, behaviours, wants and needs in 2030.
Workshop 2
explored how the future scenarios might develop between 2012 and 2030 using a futures process called ‘backcasting’.
Workshop 3
assessed the implications and opportunities that each scenario presented for public libraries in 2030.
Future scenarios
Two scenarios were developed to explore the future of Victorian lifestyles and to understand what the established and emerging community values, attitudes, behaviours, wants and needs might be in 2030. The two scenarios were named The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Humpty Dumpty.
In The Very Hungry Caterpillar scenario, we see the emergence of post-materialistic values and the impact this has on social attitudes, behaviours, wants and needs. Economic growth is no longer seen as the sole path to future prosperity as we witness the rise of a creative culture with greater emphasis on lifestyle, experiences, pursuing personal interests and lifelong learning. In this scenario, sustainability and natural resources are valued and technology is appreciated for its enabling qualities more so than any status associated with having the latest and greatest.
In the Humpty Dumpty scenario, we see lifestyles that have been influenced by the growing distrust of traditional gatekeepers and the rise of the local community, local connectedness, and interest in local issues. As well, individual entrepreneurship and technology have combined to cause political and industry fragmentation, leading to the growing irrelevance of these gatekeepers.
In both scenarios we see the impact of an ageing population, and particularly the rising incidence of dementia, and the effect this has on raising social awareness of lifetime brain health.
Opportunities
Public libraries have traditionally fulfilled their purpose of providing universal access to information via a content management and distribution role. However, in the future, advances in technology, education levels, and personal wealth, have reduced the social need for such a role. Both scenarios offer public libraries the opportunity to play more prominent roles within their communities.
In The Very Hungry Caterpillar scenario we see the decline of materialism and the emergence of a creative culture, as more and more people seek to explore, develop and express their creative selves. We also see a decline in individual and corporate competition, and a rising interest in collaboration, particularly with regard to consumption and creativity.
The rising social need in this scenario is around creativity, as more and more people seek the skills and resources to develop and express their creativity – “Help me to create”. Hence, the future opportunity for public libraries is to evolve towards becoming the creative library.
In the Humpty Dumpty scenario the growing distrust of traditional gatekeepers and the increase in telecommuting leads to a rising sense of community and the growth of the suburban village. We see the increasing need and want to learn new skills as people feel the economic pain of Victoria grinding from a physical to a virtual economy.
The rising social need relates to how information is consumed. As opposed to the passive consumption that takes place in libraries today, people in this scenario are seeking more active learning opportunities. Hence, public libraries have the opportunity to become the community library, providing classes, workshops and training to meet their community’s learning needs.
The creative library
Overview
In 2030, the primary role of a public library has broadened from managing and distributing completed creativity to facilitating creative development in a collaborative environment.
Public libraries have historically fulfilled the role of providing access to information (content) for those without means. When information creation and distribution was limited, there was a large market of those without, and this market wanted access. So, access to information was the historical social scarcity that public libraries sought to satisfy. Since information was created by the few and only accessible to the few, the role of public libraries was to make this information available to the many.
With the emergence of post-materialistic values and the rise of a creative culture, content creation becomes aspirational across the community as more and more people seek to express their creativity through writing, music, dance, multimedia, drawing, painting and theatre. In this scenario, the ability to create becomes the new social scarcity and the role for public libraries broadens to helping the community achieve its creative goals. This requires public libraries to expand their influence from a content management and distribution role to include the facilitation of content creation. The future role of public libraries will increasingly broaden to facilitating content creation.
In 2030, a public library is a kaleidoscope of sound, colour, ideas and creativity.
In this scenario, the public library becomes the community’s central hub for shared learning and creativity, offering the products, services, programs and activities that facilitate collaboration and creative development.
In essence, a public library in 2030 is:
• an active learning centre
• a community arts studio
• a brain gymnasium
• a collaborative work space.
A successful and relevant public library in 2030 offers a range of services and programs that promote creative expression and collaboration, including:
• workshops to facilitate individual and group artistic development including music, pottery, storytelling, poetry, drawing, writing, painting, sketching, media, etc
• creative spaces for collaborative ‘jamming’
• studios for recording and editing content
• business spaces for local telecommuters
• physical book collections
• eresources
• language and literacy programs for all age groups.
Operating hours
In 2030, the opening hours of a public library will extend well into the evening seven days a week, optimising the potential usage of all local residents and catering for the vast array of programs and activities offered.
Physical collections
Physical book collections still exist in public libraries in 2030, albeit in greatly reduced numbers, reflecting the growth in ebooks and the broader transition of public libraries from repositories to creative hubs. The reduced space required for book collections in 2030 allows public libraries to provide a broader array of programs and facilities.
In this scenario, public library facilities, spaces, and resources are chameleons, performing different roles throughout the day that help to facilitate collaboration and creative development.
Facilities and resources
The range of facilities and resources offered by a creative public library in 2030 includes:
• recording studios
• video-editing facilities
• creative and learning spaces (formal and informal)
• business hubs
• meeting rooms
• video conference facilities
• social spaces and community lounges
• quiet areas
• independent spaces / collaborative spaces / teaching spaces
• physical collections
• digital resources
• high quality and fast connectivity
• café area / catering.
In 2030, public libraries are located centrally within the community, reflecting their position as the central hub for learning and creativity. In terms of design, the buildings are large, open, flexible and spacious; they can cope seamlessly with a range of customer needs and activities throughout the day. The library is an inspiring place that attracts users to learn, collaborate and create. It has a multitude of creative and learning spaces that provide opportunities for independent and collaborative learning.
Staff and volunteers
In 2030, public libraries will attract skilled staff members who are interested in assisting the community to learn, create and collaborate. These people run a broad selection of creative and learning programs that build community capacity. They have a diversity of skills that reflect the make up of the community and the programs and activities offered.
Volunteering is more prominent in the creative library scenario due to the freeing up of more personal time and the increasing want and willingness to give something back to the community. In this post-materialist scenario, people are more likely to donate their time and skills, as opposed to donating money.
A successful and relevant public library in 2030 is a learning village, offering a range of services and programs that promote lifelong learning and social connection, including:
• literacy programs
• learning programs
• community programs
• documenting, warehousing and disseminating local history, culture and knowledge
• social spaces
• business centres for local telecommuters
• physical book collections
• eresources
• quiet spaces
• information services
• outreach services.
• Operating hours
The restricted opening hours of a public library in 2012 are a barrier. They prohibit the use of public library services by groups in the community such as adults who work traditional hours during the week and who spend their Saturday mornings ferrying children from one sporting appointment to the next.
In 2030, the opening hours of a public library will extend beyond 5pm weekdays and across the weekend, optimising the potential usage by all local residents and catering for the range of different learning programs and activities offered.
Physical collections
Physical book collections are larger in the community library compared with the creative library, albeit they are still smaller than in 2012, reflecting the growth in ebooks and the increased focus on active learning. Collections in this scenario are likely to include large sections focused on local history and community knowledge.
Facilities and resources
In this scenario, public library facilities, spaces and resources are a mix of flexible learning and social spaces that combine to create a learning village. In 2030, public libraries are flexible places, with mobile walls and furniture allowing for multi-purpose use. They are co-located with other local services, creating a genuine community hub. The range of facilities and resources offered by a community public library in 2030 includes:
• learning spaces, training spaces and workshop facilities
• business services (including videoconference facilities)
• social spaces and lounges
• communal meeting spaces
• physical collections
• archive spaces
• digital resources
• café area / catering.
• Staff and volunteers
In 2030, public libraries attract skilled staff members who are motivated by the fulfilment that comes with contributing to building community capacity. These people will run a broad selection of learning programs, workshops and training sessions, and will have a diversity of skills that reflect the range of programs and activities offered. They will be connectors of locals with similar passions and interests and bring together people with complementary skills and needs.
Despite the persistence of materialistic values, busyness and time scarcity in this scenario, local volunteering is very strong due to the sense of community that is so prevalent. As such, volunteering will play a major role in meeting staffing requirements for public libraries in 2030. In particular, volunteers will be sought who are educated or qualified ex-professionals, with the ability to teach or train others in formal and informal settings.
Planning for the future
Both future scenarios share common assumptions about the directions and trends influencing society. They are:
• ageing population
• continuing influence of technology
• economic challenges
• telecommuting
• brain health.
Both scenarios offer public libraries the opportunity to play more prominent roles within their communities, either through the Creative Library or the Community Library, and can be used in strategic planning for Victorian public libraries.
The key to the future evolution of public libraries is for decision makers to adopt a broad sense of identity that enables them to attach relevance to these scenarios.
Appendix 6
Opportunities – Collaboration and Procurement Report
Introduction
Mach 2 Consulting was engaged by the Department of Planning and Community Development to undertake a review of collaboration opportunities in Victoria’s public libraries.
The objective of this review was to inquire into the implications of three specific proposals/propositions for public libraries that are (or may) come under consideration by the MAC.
The three propositions examined in the review were:
1. Introduce a universal (statewide) library management system (including a quality website-based virtual library discovery layer capability).
2. Introduce one statewide library card.
3. Introduce a centralised library material procurement model.
This project did not address the issue of ebooks and eresources in detail (although these are inevitably tied up in the procurement issue). It did not address the related issue of the basis of state funding for public libraries.
Methodology
This review was undertaken through a process of research and limited consultation within the sector. The key activities included:
• discussions with DPCD staff, review/analysis of reports, library survey data, etc.
• consultations with key sector organisations/representatives (MAV, DPCD, PLVN etc.)
• consultations with a range of library services (metropolitan, rural, large, small, council, RLCs)
• review of South Australia’s public libraries model (including statewide LMS and procurement model)
• preparation of a summary report.
The report was in the form of a summary presentation to the MAC.
Findings and conclusions
1. Universal (statewide) library management system
This proposal involves procuring and implementing a statewide library management system (LMS) on behalf of all Victorian public libraries. This proposition would include an integrated website discovery layer acting as a statewide ‘virtual library’. Associated with this proposition is the issue of interlibrary loans and the ‘borderless library’ vision.
The proposition to introduce a statewide LMS, in a technical sense, is separate to the issue of interlibrary loans and the ‘borderless library’ vision. Despite this, in the eyes of the library sector (and in a practical sense), the issues are closely intertwined. This is due to the rapid increase of interlibrary loans that has occurred in libraries within the Swift Consortium over recent years.
The Swift Consortium provides a shared LMS for 16 library services in Victoria. The Swift LMS offers library users access to a shared bibliographic catalogue with a very high degree of cross-collection accessibility for users and limited barriers to interlibrary loans. The Swift experience suggests that interlibrary loans are likely to level out (after initial steep increases) at about 5.0% to 6.0% of total loans (assuming high accessibility/visibility and limited lending policy barriers).
For the time being at least, library collections remain predominantly in the form of physical collection items. At least for the short to medium term, interlibrary lending is likely to continue to require the physical transport of collection items across the state, which incurs a cost. In the medium to longer term, the emergence and increased take-up of ebooks and eresources will reduce the need for physical transport of collection resources. However, it is unlikely to eliminate the need for physical transport in the next 5-10 years.
The Victorian Government provides a daily courier service (service-to-service) to support interlibrary lending as part of the LibraryLink project. Full realisation of the borderless library vision will incur significantly increased courier costs. In addition, interlibrary loans incur significant staffing and other indirect costs which are council/RLC borne.
A statewide LMS does not, of itself, lead to increased interlibrary loans. Collection accessibility is a matter of lending policy, discretion over which is wholly enjoyed by the current collection owners (councils/RLCs).
If there is a desire to exert influence over lending and collection accessibility, this is a matter of policy rather than technology. It is possible to design an LMS that retains/protects local library control/autonomy over lending and accessibility through a series of collection management ‘levers’.
The key findings are as follows:
• A statewide LMS will provide all libraries with a better technological enabling platform.
• This will enable public libraries to more effectively respond to the challenges of the emerging digital/ebook/eresource information era.
• It will bring all libraries – large and small – up to the best-available operating and service delivery capability.
• A statewide LMS will enable delivery/realisation of the ‘borderless library’ vision by increased enablement of interlibrary loans.
• The LMS should be designed and so as to incorporate a layered range of collection access/lending management policy ‘levers’ so that collection owners retain collection and lending policy management discretion/autonomy. Increased enablement of interlibrary loans and realisation of the ‘borderless library’ vision can then be pursued through policy and funding avenues.
• A statewide LMS will include quality browsing (with digital content/images) and a CMS-based ‘virtual library’ website discovery layer.
• It will provide a platform from which to launch other service improvements and efficiencies.
• It creates a universal capacity across the state for libraries to access a range of third party products and ‘add-on’ services (such as SMS, smart phone apps etc.).
• A statewide LMS will improve data collection and reporting, thereby providing more information to improve service planning.
• The public library sector has a variety of strongly-held preferences and loyalties to different LMSs and vendors.
• The introduction of a statewide LMS would involve a central tender process from a mature, diverse and competitive vendor market for a service offering based on already available systems (based largely on existing off-the-shelf products rather than new system development).
• A statewide LMS will necessarily involve negotiating and reaching agreement with the public library sector on a range of issues including system design, specifications and service standards. To achieve this, significant engagement with and active involvement of the library sector should occur.
2. One library card
This proposal is to introduce a single, shared library card across the state that can be used across all public library services throughout Victoria. It is assumed that a statewide library card would be a simple identification card with a scannable bar code, an RFID tag, but no data storage capacity. It would be a dual-branded card (state and local government/RLC) according to an agreed general design template, within which the local government/RLC would retain a level of branding/design discretion/autonomy.
The key findings are as follows:
• A statewide library card would provide a highly tangible and visible user benefit/improvement for public library users.
• It would offer improved convenience and library accessibility (statewide) for users.
• It would enable statewide portability of library membership benefits, enabling users to more easily access library services across local government and RLC boundaries.
• It provides a tangible service improvement/user benefit that can be used as a platform to launch a statewide marketing campaign for public libraries.
• One library card also makes it easier to maintain contact with and track library users/members across the state and to retain contact with library users who relocate within the state.
• One library card is made much easier with a single statewide LMS, but is not impossible without it.
• One library card can be introduced within a framework where collection management, lending policy control and autonomy (loan periods, fines policy etc.) are retained at the local level.
• One library card would need to be implemented within the parameters of the Privacy Act.
3. Centralised library procurement model
This proposal would involve a centrally provided procurement service made available to all public libraries across the state. While the specific structure of how this would be delivered was not considered in detail, it was assumed that the model would be broadly along the lines of the centralised procurement service in South Australia.
The key findings are as follows:
• The issue of introducing a more centralised procurement model for library materials must be considered in the wider (and more pressing) context of public libraries’ response to the rapid emergence of ebooks and eresources.
• Significant procurement ‘aggregation’ already occurs in the Victorian public library sector. This is provided on an optional basis (with high level of participation) by the MAV and Procurement Australia.
• Each of the existing procurement service agencies (MAV and PA) offers a different philosophical approach and model of procurement to councils and RLCs. This provides a choice of approaches from which councils/RLCs can choose according to their own preferences and definition of procurement ‘value’ (that is price, flexibility, service quality, reliability).
• The level of savings achieved through the current procurement aggregation mainly benefits smaller and rural library services. These smaller libraries benefit from increased aggregated buying power that results from access to supplier panels shared with larger libraries that have larger annual acquisition budgets.
• Savings for the larger library services are more marginal as they could probably achieve similar price efficiency acting alone.
• A more centralised statewide procurement model is likely to lead to marginal additional financial savings (through increased discounts from RRP), most of which would benefit smaller libraries. However, the extent of these savings is difficult to quantify and can only be accurately defined through a market testing process.
• A centralised library materials procurement model provides the potential to introduce other service improvements and efficiencies in public libraries. These include standardised collection processing, single bibliographic record, statewide RFID tagging, etc.
• Like other changes, standardisation requires reaching agreement with and within the sector on the appropriate standards to apply. This inevitably involves change (and in some cases resistance to change) for some libraries with strongly-held positions and standards on material processing and labelling.
• A centralised procurement model can retain flexibility for shelf-ready and non-shelf-ready acquisitions.
• Further investigation of a statewide procurement model and approach (as part of a wider suite of changes/service improvements and in the context of a state-led, sector-wide ebook response) is warranted.
Financial impact/savings
This review was essentially a pre-feasibility study. The likely financial impact and outcomes were assessed based on an extrapolated assessment of the South Australian experience applied to the Victorian context.
The likely financial outcomes are listed below.
Scenario 1: Universal statewide LMS only
A universal statewide LMS brings all libraries throughout the state up to the best-available LMS capability/service level. It therefore constitutes a service level improvement of itself.
It is likely to generate total net savings in ICT costs of at least $12.6 million over 10 years.
The estimated net savings take account of implementation costs (state and library/RLC borne, direct and indirect), staff training and phase-out of current ICT costs.
The project would have a positive net present value (NPV) of $8.6 million over 10 years. Prima facie, an NPV of greater than 0 suggests (all else being equal) that a project is worth proceeding with.
This scenario (LMS only) represents indicative annual ICT savings of approximately 44% or an average of $25,000 per annum per library service. (Note: This scenario assumes neutral outcome in terms of interlibrary loans).
Scenario 2: Statewide LMS, one library card and ‘borderless library’ delivery:
This scenario is based on the implementation of a universal statewide LMS (as per scenario 1 above), with savings reinvested in significant service level improvements, including:
- one statewide library card
- realisation/enablement of the ‘borderless library’ vision.
This scenario (reinvestment) is likely to generate total net savings in ICT costs of approximately $0.9 million over 10 years with a significantly improved service level.
The estimated net savings take account of implementation costs and costs associated with increased levels of interlibrary lending (which is assumed to be at 5% of total loans statewide). Interlibrary loan costs include courier costs and internal staff costs relating to receival, handling and despatch of materials.
One library card costs include card acquisition, card reader acquisition, project management and a statewide marketing campaign.
Conclusion
A universal statewide LMS should be pursued as part of a suite/package of service improvements/initiatives including one library card and financial support for the resultant increased interlibrary loans.
Consideration should be given to including, as part of the package of reforms, a statewide RFID collection tagging project.
Further investigation should be undertaken into the potential of introducing a centralised statewide procurement model, as part of the state’s broader response to the emergence of ebooks and eresources.
The advancement of these initiatives should be undertaken in collaboration with the public library sector, the MAV and the PLVN.
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