09 Aug 2017 McIvor Times, Heathcote VIC (General News) LIBRARIES in Mitchell Shire are almost $300,000 better off, thanks to funding announced last week by the Victorian government. The shires libraries now have $299,530 to buy books, update computers and deliver programs for school children. Labor understands the importance of libraries to country Victorians and thats why were continuing to support them with record funding, member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said. Country Victorian communities rely on our public libraries, thats why the Andrews Labor government is doing more than ever to help continue the many wonderful programs and services they provide. On average, just under one in five Victorians visit their local library in Victoria. The Victorian Budget 2017-18 provided $42.5 million for the Public Libraries Funding Program a 2.5 per cent increase from last year. The funding comes on top of the $4.5m Living Libraries Infrastructure Program, which provides grants to build, redevelop or refurbish libraries across the state. Labor understands the importance of libraries - Jaclyn Symes Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.