West Wimmera libraries to offer after-hours access

Published on 25 July 2025

Libraries in Kaniva, Edenhope, Goroke, and Harrow will soon be accessible after hours, following new funding from the State Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.

West Wimmera Shire Council received $198,709 in funding to improve access across four West Wimmera branches.

The project will see the libraries fitted with CCTV, keypad entry, automated lighting, motion detectors, a public announcement system and automatic doors.

This will allow residents to use library facilities outside of traditional opening hours.

Once complete, community members will be able to use the spaces for borrowing, printing, study, meetings and small gatherings at times that better suit their needs.

Council Chief Executive Officer David Bezuidenhout said libraries were essential community spaces for learning, connection and work.

“This upgrade means people will be able to use the libraries when it suits their lives – after school, after work, or even on weekends,” he said.

Coordinator Wimmera Libraries, Sarah Wiesner, said the project would help address one of the biggest barriers to library use in the region.

“Limited opening hours have long been one of the biggest barriers to library use in West Wimmera,” she said. “Open Access will give our members the freedom to use the library at times that suit them.

“This project isn’t about convenience, it’s about equity.

“It ensures that everyone in our community, no matter where they live or what their schedule looks like, has access to a safe space to learn, connect and grow.”

The initiative responds directly to feedback gathered through previous community consultation, which highlighted limited opening hours as a major barrier to use.

A similar project is being rolled out at Horsham Library, as part of a broader effort to modernise regional library services.

Further updates will be shared with the community as the project progresses.