Readers vending anger
Library goes hi-tech
A GOLD COAST library is to be replaced by a book vending machine before the end of the year but some locals say they aren’t happy with the plan.
Palm Beach Library on Eleventh Ave has been earmarked for a new hi-tech service as part of a proposal by Gold Coast City Council.
Instead of a traditional library, items will be rented through myGClibrary book vending machines offering the most popular books and DVDs, along with hard-copy magazines and newspapers.
A council spokesman said the library space would instead be used for broader community service-based offerings such as training for the elderly, informal social interaction like card groups, craft groups, book clubs, and outreach services.
The council says the plan has been put forward due to the dwindling use of the library, with only 128 active Palm Beach members using it in the 12 months to July.
But Palm Beach residents said they don’t want to lose it
Trish Pilarski, who first raised concern about the issue, said she hoped the library would not be replaced.
“It is a space where people go to feel safe and to feel included. It is a lot more than just having access to books,” Ms Pilarski said.
She said she had questions regarding the estimates of 128 users given the support for the library that has come forward on social media since the vending proposal was made public.
“The numbers include those who have signed up to Palm Beach library as their home library but not everyone who uses it,” Ms Pilarski said.
“I have spoken to many people who use it and were not aware of the proposal.
“What people don’t understand is the limited number for books these vending machines can hold at any time, and the impact on children, there is no discussion about how these changes will effect their opportunity to explore.”
Councillor Hermann Vorster said the proposal at Palm Beach was only a trial and locals would still have access to the Elanora library which is less than 2km away.
He also confirmed there would be no impact on jobs.
“The council is supportive of trialling the vending machines, as an opportunity to deliver resources to Gold Coast residents in other areas,’’ Cr Vorster said.
Library members can attend information sessions about the proposal on Thursday at 10am and 6pm.