Public libraries across the state are set to receive significant upgrades with the State Government opening the latest round of its Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.
The new round of grants was launched by Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos to coincide with Children’s Book
Week celebrations.
Councils can now apply for grants ranging from $10,000 to $1 million to improve their local libraries. The funding can be used for a variety of projects, including refurbishments, expanding children’s areas, installing technology hubs, and improving accessibility for the community.
Minister Staikos said the program acknowledges the vital role libraries play as safe community spaces that provide free access to information and opportunities for social connection.
“Libraries are vital community hubs which is why we’re upgrading libraries right across Victoria,” he said.
The Living Libraries program has already supported more than 150 library infrastructure projects across metropolitan, regional, and rural Victoria, with a combined total project cost of almost $400 million.
Victorian Public Library Ambassador Andrea Rowe highlighted the timing of the announcement.
“There’s no better time than Children’s Book Week to work towards creating inspiring spaces to produce the next generation of authors,” Ms Rowe said.
Grant applications for the 2025–26 funding round are now open and will close on September 19, 2025.
More information is available on the state government’s local government website.
