Local libraries care and are there
During these difficult times, it is too easy to become isolated. But our local libraries, those pillars of our local communities, are still there, and they are reaching out to people, every day.
The Caring Calls program, which simply involves library staff picking up the phone and calling library patrons to see how they are going, has already contacted several thousand West Gippsland residents and has been a great success. Kaye McLean of Inverloch said that West Gippsland Libraries should be, “congratulated that you’ve kept everyone going,” and that her library is, “doing a marvellous job.” Kaye added that she had had a box of books delivered to her home, free of charge.
Book boxes are just one of the services being offered by local libraries at the moment, and they have proved extremely popular with those who cannot easily leave their homes for COVID related reasons. And, of course, the libraries’ online offerings, which includes books, magazines, audiobooks, and movies, all downloadable free of charge, have never gone away. The Caring Call that she received, “inspired me to use the library resources available,” said Tijana Smith of Phillip Island.
The Caring Calls program is still going, with West Gippsland Libraries’ staff continuing to reach out to their communities. If you have yet to receive a call, and would like help to access any of great resources mentioned above, then why not pick up your phone and call your library today!
The news that Public libraries have been included in the easing restrictions for Regional Victoria has been a welcome announcement for many.
As library branches begin to welcome back visitors, the health and wellbeing of staff, visitors, as well as the broader community continues to be a priority. Click and collect, home delivery and online programs will continue to be available to members. Full details of the phased re-opening and service updates are available on the West Gippsland Libraries website: wgrlc.vic.gov.au