There had been a Port Broughton School Community Library Committee that convened for more than 20 years, but that became inactive during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Barunga West Community Library exists as a school-based service under a model established in 1975 and unique to South Australia.
“This model of a school-based community library has proven remarkably successful in providing a public library service in rural areas of South Australia,” Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope said.
“Much of the success is due to effective co-operation between the Department for Education and Child Development, local government and the Libraries Board.
“Like the Local Government Association, which secured a 10-year funding agreement with the State Government in 2011, Barunga West Council recognises the enormous contribution which libraries make to our community.
“They are no longer just places to borrow an amazing array of books and other resources, but provide internet access, education programs, pre-schooler education, support services for new migrants and online services, to name a few. Libraries build social capital, supporting the community and contributing to a range of social outcomes.”
Council will re-establish and formalise a Barunga West Community Library Committee, under Section 41 of the Local Government Act 1999, to ensure good governance and oversight on the expenditure of around $20,000 in the Port Broughton School Community Library.
Council staff will liaise with the Port Broughton Area School Principal and the school’s Governing Council to review a Draft Terms of Reference before seeking its final adoption by Council.