Plans are now well advanced for the transition of the Colac Otway Shire (COS) libraries to the Geelong Regional Library Corporation (GRLC), and residents are set to reap the benefits of an expanded library service.

From 1 July this year, Colac Otway Shire’s libraries will be managed by the GRLC, one of the most highly rated library services in the State.

Ian Seuren, General Manager Development and Community Services at COS, said that the transition will represent a new era for library services in the region.

“Popular services enjoyed by library members, including mobile and home library services, will be maintained. In addition to this, access to more than 400,000 print and digital collection items will be available, and programs that improve access to new and emerging technologies can be enjoyed,” Mr Seuren said.

“Our libraries will be equipped to provide free access to faster Internet and WiFi connections, and families and young people will benefit from Geelong Regional Libraries’ comprehensive children’s and youth programs that focus on developing early literacy and a love of reading,” Mr Seuren said.

Patti Manolis, CEO of the GRLC, said that the integration of COS as a Member Council of the GRLC would result in many positive outcomes for the community, as well as making financial and operational sense.

“I believe that the community of Colac Otway Shire will really benefit from the library service provided by the GRLC. We have a great library website and an easy to navigate online catalogue, which I invite everyone to explore now by visiting www.grlc.vic.gov.au,” Ms Manolis said.

“We are committed to engaging with our communities to understand what they want and need from their libraries, and over the next year the GRLC will be providing opportunities to Colac Otway residents to share their thoughts and ideas, as we build on the services currently delivered by CRLC,” Ms Manolis concluded.

The GRLC services are delivered via Victoria’s largest library network comprising the iconic Geelong Library & Heritage Centre located in Geelong’s cultural precinct, 16 community libraries in urban, suburban and rural locations (growing to 18 when Colac Otway Shire formally joins the Corporation) throughout the region, mobile and outreach library services and an extensive array of eServices available via the library website.

The Corangamite Regional Library Corporation (CRLC) is assisting both COS and GRLC in the transitional process to ensure services to the public during this period are not materially impacted.