Public Library Funding
Rev the Hon. Dr Gordon Moyes: My question is directed to the Minister for Lands, on behalf of the Minister for Local Government: Is the Minister aware of the serious and ongoing proportional reduction in State Government funding for public libraries over the past 25 years, from 23.6 per cent of the total operating costs of public libraries in 1980, to 7.8 per cent in 2004-05, with further reductions including a massive cut of $1,023,000 (4.16 per cent) in 2006-07?
Is the Minister aware of the shameful fact that NSW, the premier State, has the lowest State Government per capita contribution to public libraries of all states and territories in Australia?
In particular, is the Minister aware that library services in Auburn Council are a significant and invaluable resource for high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds as well as Non-English Speaking Background migrants with special needs, and that there are many public libraries across the State facing similar dilemmas?
Given that the Report of the Review of Public Library Funding was released in April 2008, can the Minister indicate what funding policies will be established to ensure that resources and services in public libraries do not deteriorate further?
The Hon. Duncan Gay: He should because he is the former Minister for Local Government who made those cuts.
The Hon. Tony Kelly: No, it was not a former Minister for Local Government who made those cuts. I recall over the past decade that the Labor governments in this State have made significant advances in increased funding for libraries in New South Wales. In fact, in some years I recall that in some areas those increases may have been up to 20 per cent, or a significant amount in any case. Certainly, this Government has looked after many council libraries, though I am aware that issues exist. It is a good question that I will take on notice and give to the responsible Minister.
Deferred answer
On 19 June 2008 Reverend the Hon. Dr Gordon Moyes asked the Minister for Lands, representing the Minister for Local Government, a question without notice regarding public library funding. The Minister for the Arts provided the following response:
Local government is the principal funding body of public libraries in New South Wales. State Government funding to public libraries has increased by 40% since 1995 to $23.5 million this financial year. Although State Government funding has increased, there have been even greater increases in local government funding of public libraries, from $46.7 million in 1985 to $271 million in 2006/07. This substantial increase is reflected in the relevant proportions of State and local government funding to public libraries.
Any comparisons to public library funding in other jurisdictions need to take account of the different funding models and arrangements in place.
The Government recognises the important service libraries provide in communities across the State. In the case of Auburn Council, State Government funding has increased by 66% since 1995/96.
As Minister for the Arts, I have sought the advice of the Library Council of New South Wales, working with the Director-General of the Department of the Arts, Sport and Recreation, on the full implementation of the review’s recommendations.
