Carrum Downs’ Libraries After Dark extended until July 2022
Published on 21 May 2021
Carrum Downs Library is extending its Libraries After Dark program, thanks to additional funding from the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation.
The $32,000 boost will allow Council to continue running its Thursday night evening sessions until July 2022.
The Moreland City Council Libraries After Dark initiative has been rolled out to 14 libraries across the state and was launched at Carrum Downs in February this year.
The program keeps the doors open late, in an effort to combat social isolation and gambling related harm.
Since February, more than 800 people have accessed Carrum Downs library during Libraries After Dark and Frankston City Councillor, David Asker, said this was a wonderful outcome.
“It is brilliant that we are able to continue delivering this important program, which has been embraced by the Frankston City community and I would like to thank the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation and Moreland City Council for making that happen.
“We have received really positive feedback about the impact Libraries After Dark is having locally,” Cr Asker said.
One community member told Council, “It is so important that this service can continue, Fantastic Frankston City Council. Thank you for being open late.”
Another said, “I just saw this when I was searching for a book on the library site. What a fantastic concept. I congratulate the Moreland Council for initiating it and Frankston Libraries for picking it up.
“In my youth the library was a location of solace where I could enjoy quiet. Making that facility available to people at the time of day where they may be looking for other distractions may be the magic elixir we have been looking for.”
The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation is a statutory authority created by the Victorian Parliament.
State Member for Carrum, Sonya Kilkenny said, "The Libraries After Dark program is such a great initiative. I am delighted that additional funding from the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation will see this program continue at the Carrum Downs Library until July 2022 - providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive space for those who might be struggling with gambling addiction and social isolation.”
Not visited the library recently? Head down to one of our libraries or visit the library website: library.frankston.vic.gov.au/Home
More information on Libraries After Dark at Carrum Downs Library, is available here.
If gambling has become a problem for you or a loved one make an appointment with Gambler’s Help Southern: 9575 5353 or after hours, phone: 1800 858 858