Books are back

By Lia Bichel
IT started as a bad story, but a happy ending looks promising.
The State Government announced it has reversed its decision to cut library funds, leaving Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Casey-Cardinia Library Corporation Peter Carter optimistic for the future.
Mr Carter welcomed the announcement by the Ted Baillieu Government this week of a $6.5 million funding package to Victorian libraries.
In June, Mr Carter said the board had prepared their budget before being told about the proposed funding cuts, leaving them with a $66,000 void to fill.
Mr Carter said he hoped the recent announcement would benefit local libraries and he looked forward to working with the State Government to achieve a favourable outcome.
“I think it’s a positive outcome in terms of the State Government listening to the local government, and we are happy to work with them on what is proposed and see how it pans out. Hopefully, we can achieve a sustainable outcome for the long term,” Mr Carter said.
“It’s always best to be optimistic.”
South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Inga Peulich said that City of Casey would share in funding over the next three years.
“I am pleased to see that the Baillieu Government is acting to support and maintain this vital program where the former Government’s lack of initiative and funding cuts posed serious threats to its sustainability and growth in our communities,” Ms Peulich said.
“The Baillieu Government will give communities like Casey the best opportunities and availability for education.
“I encourage all the citizens of Casey to frequent their libraries and enjoy the wonderful resources the government is working hard to maintain and defend for the community.”
Cranbourne MP Jude Perera and Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley said it was an overwhelming backlash from the community and local council, which forced the Baillieu Government to reverse its decision to dramatically cut funding from public libraries.
“After threatening to strip millions of dollars from Victoria’s public libraries, Local Government Minister Jeanette Powell has buckled to public pressure, reversing a decision which could have seen libraries in Casey with fewer programs and reduced opening hours,” Mr Perera said.
Ms Graley said it was a great victory for the community, but said she hoped the State Government would now focus on funding for other vital programs, such as the Take-A-Break Program in the City of Casey.