By Deanne Jeffers
RECOGNISING libraries as important sanctuaries for the community to meet, learn and unwind, hours were extended at Tatura Library, where hundreds were evacuated to safety.
“No buildings or assets have been damaged across any municipalities at the moment. Shepparton and Mooroopna weren’t impacted, Mooroopna having only just escaped – the water was close to the floor,” explained GV Libraries CEO, Kevin Preece.
“Tatura Library opened for additional hours because of the number of people displaced. We opened the library there on Wednesday, when it is normally closed, and have extended hours for the rest of the week to provide a place of refuge and a distraction from what families have experienced.”
Due dates have been extended until November 2. GV Libraries want to remind members there are no overdue fees, and no one will be penalised for late returns.
Library membership is free and provides a range of digital resources including e-books, audiobooks and streaming services for kids and adults with a huge range of movies and documentaries.
“We have a video streaming service, Canopy, which is essentially a free Netflix,” Mr Preece said, encouraging the public to explore the services available online.
He said, “We acknowledge that we partner with other libraries that are being impacted, mainly Echuca, Rochester, Kerang, and other places further down the river that are going to be feeling the impacts over the coming days. We feel for our partners and we’re here to help support them.”
Regular library hours and services will return shortly. To become a member or to learn more, visit www.gvlibraries.com.au.
