Darebin Libraries and Learning Strategy 2020-24

I'm amazed every time I come that my local community has such a wonderful free resource that allows everyone to participate in learning and sharing. Library customer, March 2019

We understand that it is a difficult time for the community. Responding to the unprecedented challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic remains Council’s priority. However, Council is also committed to planning for the community's future and is proceeding with this consultation.

The draft Darebin Libraries and Learning Strategy 2020-24 is the result of merging two important Council strategies: the Darebin Libraries Strategy and the Lifelong Learning Strategy.

During the planning and community engagement phases of these two strategies, it became clear there were significant overlaps. Both strategies addressed the lifelong learning needs of our community, barriers to participation and how Council can help the community access lifelong learning opportunities.

Thank you to members of both the Lifelong Learning Strategy Reference Group and the Darebin Libraries Strategy Implementation Reference Group and everyone who participated in the consultation activities and provided their feedback. We heard from over 4,375 community members and community organisation representatives, including those who don't currently use our libraries. Your feedback has been incredibly valuable as we shape Darebin Libraries' future direction.

You can view a summary of the consultation findings from the community engagement activities so far in the document library on the right of this page.

The Draft Darebin Libraries and Learning Strategy uses a community-centred approach and focus on four key goals that were developed together with the Darebin community to help us to continue to provide services that benefit our community.

1. Equity of access: We will provide services, resources and facilities that enable all community members to access our libraries
2. A thriving community: We will promote and support the wellbeing of our community through increased opportunities for lifelong learning and social connection
3. Welcoming safe spaces: We will create welcoming, safe, flexible and inclusive physical and digital spaces
4. Responsive services: We will continue to build Darebin Libraries' capacity to provide services to meet our community's needs

What's happening now?

Thank you to our Reference Group members and everyone who participated in this consultation and provided their feedback. We appreciate you taking the time to read our draft Strategy and sending through you comments which are currently being reviewed.