$60 million funding will be invested to upgrade 370 public libraries.

The upgrade will extend opening hours, expand book collections, deliver English lessons, provide outreach programs for seniors, and HSC classes and study help. 

“This is a record investment in NSW’s public libraries- the biggest single cash injection in their history,” Premier Gladys Berejiklian said. 

“This historic investment will transform the way NSW’s public libraries deliver much-needed services, especially in regional areas, enhancing customer experience and convenience,” she added. 

Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said that the investment was a landmark occasion for the NSW public libraries, ensuring their future in every community. 

“All councils will receive an increase in annual library subsidy funding between 40 to 50 per cent by 2022-23. This significant investment demonstrates that our Government supports the hundreds of libraries across the state,” Mr Harwin said. 

The investment will increase the per capita subsidy for public libraries from $1.85 per capita to $2.85 per capita. This is their first increase in over twenty years. 

Moreover, out of the $60 million, $24 million will be dedicated to infrastructure upgrades. 

In addition, Service NSW kiosks will be placed in more libraries to give communities easier access to Government services, including the recently released cost of living initiatives such as the green slip refunds and finding better deals on energy prices.