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Our destination

Everyone feels welcome, valued and included in our libraries. Our spaces are accessible and inviting, our collections reflect the diversity of our community, and our programs celebrate and connect people from all backgrounds. Every aspect of our service is shaped by the lived experiences of people of all ages, cultures, abilities, genders and identities.

Why it’s important

When our community members feel like they belong, they are more likely to visit, take part in programs, and see the library as a safe and supportive place to learn, share and grow.

What we will do

By 2030 we will:

• introduce a cultural competency framework to support staff to deliver respectful, high-quality, culturally appropriate services
• finalise our Creative Infrastructure Plan, including options for the expansion or relocation of the current Maribyrnong branch
• co-design more programs with community
• undertake a community-led evaluation of our collection
• be a place for cultural exchange grounded in respect and recognition of First Nations Treaty processes.

Headline indicator: More people, from all backgrounds, are members of our library service.

How we will know we’re successful

We will know we’re achieving this goal when more people from all walks of life are not just using our libraries, but helping to shape them – when our spaces, programs and collections reflect the lived experiences and aspirations of the full community.

This includes:

• increased diversity of library users across age, culture, ability, gender and identity
• higher participation from historically under-represented groups in programs and events
• stronger community partnerships with cultural, youth, disability and LGBTQIA+ organisations
• user feedback showing that people feel welcomed, safe and respected (via surveys, interviews or comment cards)
• programs consistently including First Nations voices, culturally and linguistically diverse facilitators and accessible formats
• staff feeling empowered to advocate for inclusion and innovation, and being supported to do so.

Our destination

Through access to trusted information and meaningful networks, our libraries help people build the skills and confidence they need to fully participate in community life.

Whether someone is looking for work, learning something new, starting a business or simply seeking connection, our libraries offer the support and resources to help them take their next step.

Our staff are trusted guides – helping people navigate change, discover opportunities and grow in ways that matter to them.

Why it’s important

When people feel supported by the library, they’re more likely to get involved and feel like they’re part of the community.

What we will do

By 2030 we will:

• strengthen partnerships with key community services
• build staff competency in digital and media literacy
• create a user-driven, tiered service that offers self-service, develops customer capability and directs staff support to those who want it and need it most
• introduce a new model for one-to-one help
• explore new ways to make our collections and services easier to access via technology and new locations
• relocate the current Yarraville branch to a larger, purpose-built library within the Bradmill precinct.

Headline indicator: More people are connected with resources, programs and services.

How we will know we’re successful

We will know we’re succeeding when people not only use our libraries, but grow through them – when they leave more confident, better informed and more connected than when they arrived.

This includes:

• visitors reporting increased confidence or capability as a result of library programs and services
• repeat engagement – people coming back, attending multiple sessions or continuing their learning through the library
• stories and case studies about library visitors gaining employment, launching small businesses and engaging with government services with the support of library programs and services
• staff feeling confident and supported in their roles as guides and facilitators
• increased referrals to community partners and services.

Our destination

Our libraries inspire curiosity, creativity and new ideas by offering stories and experiences that spark the imagination. Our spaces are designed to create moments of wonder and encourage exploration – from a beautiful book display to catch the eye, to an interactive exhibit or a quiet corner that invites reflection.

We invite creativity through makerspaces, digital labs and programs that support experimentation, play and expression. Our diverse collections are curated and displayed to encourage serendipity – helping people stumble upon new interests, perspectives and possibilities. Beyond books, our Library of Things lets people borrow equipment, instruments, games and gadgets – expanding access to creativity, sustainability and everyday problem-solving. The library is a place where you can find exactly what you’re looking for, right next to the very thing you’ve always wanted, but didn’t even know existed.

And at the heart of it all, our staff delight in the delighted. They are the facilitators of discovery, helping people of all ages and backgrounds ignite their curiosity, follow their passions and bring their ideas to life.

Why it’s important

When people feel inspired, they are more likely to explore, learn and take positive action in their lives and community.

What we will do

By 2030 we will:

• finalise the design for Creative West, including a new state-of-the-art library, performance venue and space for creativity and collaboration
• introduce makerspaces or creative programs in all branches
• grow our Library of Things with a focus on sustainability and creativity
• regularly program immersive and surprising experiences
• provide opportunities for staff to implement their ideas for sharing with visitors everything the library has to offer.

Headline indicator: More visitors describe the library as a place of inspiration.

How we will know we’re successful

We will know we’re achieving this goal when our libraries feel alive with curiosity – when people are not just using our spaces and collections, but exploring, experimenting and creating with them; when a visit to the library leads to unexpected finds and new ideas.

This includes:

• increased use of makerspaces, digital labs and creative tools
• increased participation in creative programs and workshops
• diverse collections being borrowed and explored
• anecdotes or testimonials about people discovering new interests, trying something for the first time or developing a creative project sparked by something at the library
• staff are seen as welcoming, enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides – not guardians, who help people uncover new resources or try new things
• community members contributing to creative offerings: sharing zines, hosting workshops, exhibiting work or recommending items for the collection.