General News
21 October, 2026
Libraries’ future up for discussion
TABLELANDS Regional Council’s libraries are again the source of discussion, with a new community survey currently online to gauge how people use the facilities.
The council has launched the survey, which will be open until 2 November, to assist in developing a new Library Strategy to guide the future direction, priorities, and investment of library services over the next five years.
TRC’s website states that the “project is driven by the need to incorporate findings from the Library Service Review, respond to changing community needs and demographics, and address the growing importance of digital inclusion and access”.
Last year, former Mayor Rod Marti said a decision to change opening hours at some libraries and close others followed the service review which had revealed a significant decline in people attending libraries.
“The needs of our community are constantly changing and we need to evolve and adapt the way we provide services,” he said at the time.
“Our library service review informed improvements and provided direction for the delivery of a quality, contemporary, cost-effective and equitable library service.
“Our libraries have seen a significant decrease in attendance over the past nine years while access to digital resources has increased, and the bottom line is, we can’t continue to provide seven libraries in our region.”
Council proposed the closure of four libraries and changes to some of the branches’ opening hours but after community backlash, decided not to go ahead with the changes.
TRC says the new strategy will help “establish a clear vision for how libraries will continue to serve as inclusive, accessible, and future-focused community hubs that support learning, digital inclusion, cultural enrichment, and social connection”.
“This is an in-depth look at all current and potential services and not a branch-by-branch examination,” the council’s website states.
To access the survey, go to https://www.trc.qld.gov.au/project/trc-libraries-strategy/
