The popular Bentleigh Library is set to be transformed into a new hub for community services thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Local Government Minister Shaun Leane has announced Glen Eira City Council will receive $1 million from the Labor Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.

The investment will redevelop Bentleigh Library as a community centre and base for the council’s youth services, including counselling and career advice.

It will also create space for expanded collections, training classes and popular programs for children and seniors.

The project has also received $5 million from the Community Infrastructure Loans Scheme, which offers low-interest, subsidised loans to councils for infrastructure projects.

Since 2015 the government has invested more than $32.5 million into 95 Living Libraries projects, allowing a total investment of $236.8 million for new libraries, upgrades to existing facilities and library vans.

The 2021 round of the program is the biggest in its history, part of a record $56.9 million commitment to libraries from the 2020-2021 Victorian Budget.

For more information on Living Libraries and this year’s successful applications visit localgovernment.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Shaun Leane

“The Living Libraries Infrastructure Program makes a real difference for communities across the state, delivering high-quality library facilities and ensuring that all Victorians have access to a public library.”

“Investments like this help create local jobs and ongoing employment opportunities and we’re proud to invest in communities and local neighbourhoods because we understand the difference projects like these can make.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos

“It’s great to see the redevelopment of Bentleigh Library with this investment, and it’s an exciting project for our community which I can’t wait to see complete.”

“Bentleigh Library is a much-loved part of our community and it’s about so much more than books, through this project even more locals – particularly younger people – will be able to access all the great services it provides.”