Statewide service returns

Book lovers can now resume borrowing from everywhere

Book lovers can rejoice with the return of a popular statewide borrowing service returning this month.

Glenelg Libraries members will once again be able to expand their reading habits and borrow items from other libraries across the state, as the much-loved interlibrary loans program resumed last week.

Inter-library loans, more commonly known as library holds, were suspended last year as the peak body, Public Libraries Victoria, struggled to balance rising costs of costs of logistics, courier and other operational services. As a result, the service has resumed with some slight modifications to ensure financial sustainability for Libraries across the State.

Library and Information Services manager Tanya Flockhart (pictured with Denis McDonald) welcomed the news, citing the popularity of the program with Glenelg Libraries members. “We are delighted to announce that our members will once again have access to the widest possible range of materials from across the State,” she said.

“Many community members have been eagerly awaiting this announcement, so we anticipate there will be some keen readers ready to submit their hold requests which is fantastic.

“There will be some slight changes for members to be aware of. Deliveries will now occur weekly, which may mean it may take a few extra days for your preferred item to arrive at your local branch.

“New release items will also not be available from other libraries, but this also means that any new releases to Glenelg Libraries branches will stay within our local collection for priority to our members.

“As always, if there is a resource not available at your local library, we encourage members to request items so our collection continues to be tailored to our community.

“A limit of 20 holds will also apply at any one time, and you also won’t be able to request picture books, magazines or CDs from other libraries.

“But above all, the most important reminder for our community is that this invaluable service will remain free.” Mrs Flockhart reminded community members of a few housekeeping tips as the service resumes.

“We ask members to please collect your holds when ordered, or cancel if they are no longer required,” she said.

“This will provide efficiency and also ensure we are all responsibly using the service.

“If there is an item you have been unable to hold, please speak to a library staff member. “Our friendly staff will be able to help you with any queries you may have or to place a hold or request on your behalf.

“We look forward to seeing our members once again enjoying this much-loved service and seeing resources shared across the State.

“Our readers are a passionate and vibrant community, and with the help of this service we can continue to foster a love of reading and lifelong learning for all ages.”

For more information, visit the Glenelg Libraries website