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We are refreshing 2 key documents that will guide the future of Merri-bek Libraries:

  • Our Library Strategy
  • Our Collections Policy

These documents inform the way we provide our services and resources for staff, library visitors and the broader community into the future.

Explore the Draft Library Strategy

Thanks to everyone who provided feedback during our first phase of engagement. Keep scrolling to see how your comments helped shape the draft strategy. You can also download a copy of the draft document and leave your comments below.

Our vision

Our goals

Merri-bek Libraries are welcoming, flexible and inclusive places for everyone in the community.

We heard

Libraries need flexible physical spaces to support a range of different uses

We will deliver

  • A new Coburg Library and Piazza
  • Program of library refurbishment to increase amenity, access to study space and support programming at Brunswick, Campbell-Turnbull and Fawkner Libraries
Our collections inform, inspire and entertain, evolving to meet the changing needs and interests of the community

We heard

  • Physical collections are still very important
  • Strong support for borrowing non-book items (Library of Things)
  • Demand for digital collections continues to grow

We will deliver

  • An exciting Library of Things
  • News about all the great library collections and how to best use them
  • Inspiring digital and physical collections
  • Increased digital help opportunities at the library


Programs and services provide more opportunities to create, celebrate, learn and connect at the library.   

We heard

Library programs are popular

We will deliver

  • An annual large-scale celebration to bring the community together
  • Programs that support social cohesion, social connection and build a sense of community belonging
  • A range of programs designed specifically for and with our priority cohorts:
    • Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders
    • Migrant, refugee, and faith communities
    • People with disability 
    • Women, girls, and gender diverse people
    • LGBTIQA+ communities


Library staff reflect our diverse community, and are trained to provide an excellent, tailored service to the Merri-bek community.

We heard

  • Strong support for libraries to be open more on evenings and weekends
  • Library staff are valued
  • Library Social Worker Program is valued

We will deliver

  • Opening hours that reflect community expectations, including for staffed library opening hours. (Unstaffed library hours will not be implemented, in line with a March 2026 Council decision.)
  • The best possible service and support provided by skilled library staff
  • An enhanced Library Social Work Program to support vulnerable community members


More

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