Wagga Wagga City Library Review Contents

WAGGA WAGGA CITY LIBRARY REVIEW CONTENTS

Acknowledgement Overview 5 of Country Wagga Wagga City Council Executive Summary 6 acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of this land, the Wiradjuri 2020: A Day in the Life at Wagga Wagga City Library 8 people, and pays respect to Elders, past and present and emerging. Section 1: Research 11 We honour the living heritage of the Community research 12 world’s oldest continuous culture, After the lockdown 16 and we celebrate the contemporary Case study 1: Place for the imagination 18 creativity of our First Nations communities. We acknowledge the ongoing connection between First Section 2: Reference points 20 Nation communities and this land. Benchmarks 22 The Wagga Wagga City Library Future Library Service Models 24 Review 2020 has been compiled in Leading libraries 26 consultation with the local Wiradjuri and First Nations Communities with the aim of building a city that thrives Section 3: Themes 28 on positive relationships and cultural Growth 29 diversity. Case study 2: A bit of magic 33 People and place 34 Case study 3: Knitting Circle 37 What people say 38 Summary 39 Section 4: Future 41 Future 42 Commissioned by: Summary of recommendations 44 Wagga Wagga City Council 243 Baylis Street, PO Box 20, Recommendations 46 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 2038: Hotbed of Ideas 48 Written and produced by: 2038: A Day in the Life at Wagga Wagga City Library 50 Project Sisu www.projectsisu.com Appendices 52 Designed by: Bibliography 52 Pro Bono Publico www.probono.com.au Glossary of terms 54 © Copyright 2021

Cover: National Science Week 2018 Photo: Jack of Hearts Studio

2 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 3 OVERVIEW YIRADHU MARANG (GOOD DAY)

Opening in 1999, the Wagga Wagga City Library has served the community well in its current location for twenty years. To mark its 20th anniversary, a review of library spaces, services and capabilities was launched in 2019. The Wagga Wagga City Library Review aimed to position the library service Boorooma Bomen Estella for a future that will be radically different from the world in which it was originally conceived. Scope of review Riverina Regional Library The City Library Review has drawn on extensive Wagga Wagga City Library is a member of the community research, library benchmarking, relevant Riverina Regional Library (RRL), conceived in 1978. case studies, and a comprehensive examination of Wagga Wagga City Council (WWCC) continues public library trends, national and international. to support the Riverina Regional Library Model in It has involved: its role as Executive Council. The current Deed of Agreement expires in 2022. WWCC and RRL have • conversations, workshops, meetings and Wagga Wagga City Library initiated a consultative process to explore future surveys with 710 people throughout the City membership service options. A report will be of Wagga Wagga tabled to WWCC by June 2021. Future options for • extensive research into a range of regional the City’s membership of RRL will be made after library services across NSW and Victoria this date. • in-depth exploration of international library trends, research and futures thinking. Uncertainty and opportunity The repercussions of the Covid-19 global In a nutshell pandemic are predicted to be far-reaching. Wagga Wagga City Library is well used and loved by Glenfield Park To Wagga Wagga Airport The crisis also presents opportunities to think those who value its physical and online resources, and act differently. spaces, learning programs and capable staff. Trusted places like public libraries, in which More can be done to extend its reach into every communal identity is amplified by practical corner of the Wagga Wagga community. resources, have never been more vital and The Library Review has clear findings: necessary. Libraries, more than any other cultural • the City Library is too small for a regional city institution, welcome, encourage, entertain and To Kapooka of Wagga Wagga’s size and ambition support the greatest number of people and uses • too many people are missing out on the in any given community. important and often life saving opportunities Libraries, including Wagga Wagga City Library, the library provides have already displayed innovation in response to • library staff exhibit an inventiveness that if recent crises and creative recovery efforts. further resourced will help the City find a new When it comes to supporting Wagga Wagga’s creative edge: to rebuild communities; tackle economic, social and cultural aspirations, the library disadvantage; actively engage with and learn service can’t do everything, but it can do a lot. from Wiradjuri elders, cultural knowledge and language; craft new 21st century stories of identity, inclusion and hope.

NOTE: This map is for illustration purposes only.

4 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 5 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY REFERENCE POINTS THEMES 1. Growth NSW Coﬀs Harbour Port Macquarie Lots of economic, social & cultural Tamworth Dubbo opportunities/potential for unequal Port Stephens Orange distribution of services to support THE CITY CITY LIBRARY disadvantaged communities VIC Albury 65,258 (2019) people 20-year-old building in Civic Centre Bendigo 2. People & Place Ballarat 100,000 people by 2038 1600 sq metres/2 levels Geelong Growth + liveability, accessibility, equality of opportunity > % growth in migration to No branch library network How does WWCL compare with = need for cultural infrastructure Wagga Wagga other regional cities? Small staff cohort = 18.7 FTE = libraries. > % growth in (since Sunday opening was • One of the smallest city library younger age demographic approved in July 2020) services of any regional city in 5.6% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Member of Riverina Regional NSW and Victoria Islander Library since 1978 • Smaller staff cohort Hybrid economy: agriculture, Library is highly valued • Smaller spatial footprint in health, knowledge, aged comparison to other regional city Excellent programs/responsive libraries of similar populations care & creative industries staff Performing well: programs + collection diversity + staff responsiveness

FUTURE: RECOMMENDATIONS 2020 - 2038 COMMUNITY RESEARCH NOW 2020 - 2022 INTERMEDIATE 2022 - 2025 LONGER TERM 2025 - 2038 710 Reconfigure floorplan: Maximise Implement Agile Library: Expand Agile Library Services in participants: LIBRARY SIZE 500 Perceived gaps WW City Library x use of current and potential nimble van that can be driven response to population growth. floorspace to increase seating and by staff to suburbs and villages. 578 surveys, Flexible frequency mentioned Redesign footprint of the study areas, digital access and 132 interviews meeting EQUITY OF ACCESS Trial activation of a library Civic Centre including the Civic programming. & workshops study presence in neighbourhood Arcade; integrate Customer Lack of spaces LEARNING PROGRAMS COLLECTIONS Level 1: More learning/meeting locations e.g. Glenfield Service/Library experiences; meetings critical to branch Physical/ spaces; western end - install casual Community Centre & Ngurra stretch outwards towards Lots of ideas growing structure Great, more city outreach online seating and a smaller concierge desk Youth Hub in Ashmont. Wollundry Lagoon including

frequency needed/ keep to replace the large front desk; install a Café. for expansion mobile & more places/ PARTNERSHIPS Explore possibility of 24/7 fresh & mobile technology with bookable & new pop-up broader kiosk. Explore need for a branch Shared diverse laptops/tablets and café style services options cross library in a growth area. 24/7 section of space & + Library benches; install smart return shelves Add capabilities: outreach, Consistent access community services in of Things to accommodate recent returns; digital engagement, diverse digital community/ self-serve coffee bar. Enclose the futures, learning and literacies. views on creative + creative book chute returns area. current gaps hubs + literacy Level 0: Expand Children’s Area 0 for events and regular Storytime sessions; install smart return higher importance lower shelving.

6 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 7 Around the clock…

2020: A DAY IN THE LIFE Knitting Circle Tech-savvy seniors Cultural support Practical support Around 25-30 people “People who don’t have “Hardly a day goes by when “I helped a truck driver apply AT WAGGA WAGGA access to the internet or a group, author or artist for a job with Visy. Their “Summer 2019-2020: our understand technology doesn’t contact the library process was entirely online, community is at a loss to know make up a huge part of our wanting our help to reach and he was unfamiliar with CITY LIBRARY how to deal with the growing customer service. Often the the wider community to most of what was needed. sense of hopelessness in the problems aren’t easy to solve, share information and skills: He had a typed copy of face of bushfire emergency. but by directing them to other legal; health; art & craft; his CV, and hard copies of Storytime Book launch The library holds a Knit for services or organisations we performance… his qualifications with him. can often help. We also have Visy wanted a written cover Around 125 people and reading Joey’s event to support our When the local Shakespeare local chapter of WIRES. We regular Tech Savvy Senior letter and all the rest, but across two sessions Club had its centenary, I Around 65 people provide cake and tea, always a Classes, which are friendly was able to borrow the State uploaded via a portal. (kids and parents) great social lubricant. Around and oversubscribed.” Library of NSW’s copy of So, he had to learn to use 20 women gather to knit, other Jen the First Folio published in Word for the cover letter members of the community 1623, and the only copy in and learn how to use the donate wool and needles, the southern hemisphere, to scanner for everything else, there is a sense of purpose for be on display for one month all of which I helped him these women, they share skills, in the library. John Bell with. That’s a really indicative knitting patterns, and stories from Bell Shakespeare also example: people encounter of fire survival they make agreed to attend our major barriers between themselves sense of the wold through the event for free. The ladies in and what they’re trying to simple act of being together the local club were delighted achieve (I mean, he was with common cause. Across as it was beyond their already a truck driver), and the day the group decides wildest dreams to celebrate librarians try to help them they would like to continue to their centenary in this way.” learn how to remove those Local studies knit together each Tuesday. Claire barriers, without judgement, requests The library has facilitated and for free. this request. This group has On any given day in the “A woman came in asking now decided to knit beanies library, we would do the for help. She was born in for Wagga’s homeless, the equivalent of what I just Wagga Wagga but moved library will connect with local described, three or four away as an adult. All her welfare agencies to organise times over.” family came from Wagga, distribution.” Peter and when she was a little girl Chrissie her grandmother died, but it wasn’t talked about. With no explanation, visits to her grandma stopped abruptly. I Baby Bounce Home delivery was able to find information Disability support “The children’s area of Volunteers in Trove about where and “Kerry is a regular Library Wagga Wagga City Library how her Grandma died, and customer with a vision has become a pram car identify where her Grandma’s impairment. Typically, she park as parents arrive for house had been, using the comes to the Library to type Baby Bounce. Some of the council mapping portal and Computer access letters. When she enters, she participants have come Information Language Café NSW lands department. will come to the main desk together, others make their Tourists, grey nomads, With the information I was to ask for help to log on to way to the open floor space requests Around 25 -30 people international backpackers, able to give her, the woman a computer, find the word spreading out baby rugs. I “I’ve settled many bets! Started in 2017. Conversational job seekers, students: was able to trace her processing feature, and for the greet all bubs and carers. People come into the library English. 50-70 volunteers, use the library facilities to Grandma’s route to where font to be changed to size 48. They sing songs and rhymes, and ask questions such as many bi-lingual. Learning access the internet, print she ended her life, as she After typing each letter, Kerry blow bubbles and read books. “My mate reckons he kicked and social experience. and scan documents, read drowned herself in one of the will return to the desk and ask Participants smile at each a goal in the 1970 Carroll a newspaper, or relax in an sections of the lagoon. The one of us to proofread the letter other, connecting as group of Cup final. Can I see the “Some participants felt lonely air-conditioned environment. woman was so thankful she and help her to print it off (Kerry new mums and dads. At the Daily Advertiser report of when they were new arrivals, was able to get closure on a usually types several letters in a end of the session strangers the game?”. They sure can, but after participating in LC sad event in her childhood, session). She is always grateful are talking together about using our comprehensive they made friends and keep and honour her Grandma for our help and knows many the parenting experience and local newspaper collection meeting each other outside the library.” Mentoring sessions and pay her respects.” of us by name.” finding social connection.” available on microfilm.” Sarah Simon Jeannie Michael Mahsa

8 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 9 SECTION 1: RESEARCH In this section: 710 people participated in the Wagga Wagga City Library Review. Research modes included: surveys, workshops, interviews, small group sessions, and visits to community hubs and mobile library stops. Wagga Wagga residents love the library – space, collections, programs and service ethic. Consistent views: – City Library is too small for a regional city; – More flexible study, workshop and meeting spaces needed; – Many community members live in suburbs which are currently underserved by the library; – Need to consider new options for library service delivery.

10 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 11 Section 2 Research x x 16,000 x x People attend library x x Section 2 programs & events Research x x 16,000 350 x x x x People attend library Programs x x x x Section 2 programs & events per year, on average Research x x 16,000 350 x 181,801 x x x x x People attend library Programs x People used x x x x x Section 2 programs & events per year, on average library in 2018/9 Research x x COMMUNITY RESEARCH 16,000 350 x 181,801 x 368x x x x x x People attend library Programs x People used x Survey x x x x x x MAYINY-GU GARRAYWANGIDYAL (PEOPLE’S FINDINGS) programs & events per year, on average library in 2018/9 respondents

Community research has affirmed the importance of the library to the City’s Survey350 respondents181,801 x Usage368 x 150 xparticipantsx x x x x goal to be a culturally rich, learning centred and socially inclusive regional TherePrograms are a number of thingsPeople to note: used x TheSurvey people of Waggax Wagga useIn workshops, their libraryx focusx x x x x per year, on average library in 2018/9 respondents groups & interviews city. It has revealed consistent views about the library’s current limitations • respondents were generally younger in service in a multitude of ways. The 30-40 per cent comparison to many community surveys of this of Wagga Wagga’s population who use the library and service possibilities. Equally important are the views of people who are kind. While the highest response rate was from regularly do so on a weekly or fortnightly basis. The most frequent uses relate to borrowing (books, not current or regular users, but could be if library offerings met more of 181,801people aged between 55 and368 64, the second x 150 participantsx Highx satisfactionx x x x x their needs, in the right locations, at the right times, and in the right way. Peoplehighest used response rate was fromSurvey people aged x pictureIn workshops, books, DVDs, focusx e-books);For online books, resources;x DVDs, xe- x x x x librarybetween in 2018/9 25 and 34, and therespondents third highest was placesgroups to &study interviews and read; attendingresources, programs, Storytime talks, from respondents aged between 35 and 44; events; using wifi and computers. Consultation Consultation has included interviews, • while the library attracts visitation from across While respondents had high levels of satisfaction meetings, and/or workshops with: the greater Wagga Wagga region, the highest with most of the above, they signalled greater Between July and December 2019, a range of 368 participantsx High satisfaction x satisfactionx fundingx • Wiradjuri Elders along with members of Marwang usage is from people living 150in central, east and dissatisfaction with thex availabilityLow of suitable x $60m x different stakeholders participated in community Survey In workshops, focusx For books, DVDs, e-x For libraryx size, meetingx x Increase by NSW Statex x Garway and other community leaders and north Wagga. When cross correlated with how meeting and recreational spaces, and bookable research activities. In addition, one online survey, respondents groups & interviews resources, Storytime spaces & accessibility Govt over 4 year period service providers people get to the library, it is evident that having rooms. available between August and October 2019, a car helps. In fact, the lack of public transport attracted 368 responses via the Wagga View portal. • eight Councillors, recorded and transcribed Dissatisfaction was also registered around • library staff workshops (x3) options was frequently mentioned, as was the opening times (should be longer); availability of An additional online survey was available between participants satisfaction satisfaction funding 150issue of parking availability;High x quiet,Low study spaces; xmobile and7.6m branchx options people $60m x 114m x x June and July 2020 to explore usage of and • directors and managers from community, In workshops, focus For books, DVDs, e-x For library size, meetingx Visited Australianx Increase by NSW Statex Visits to public x x • most respondents were born in Australia and outside the CBD; and targeted services for people reflections on the City Library’s offerings during cultural and planning services, and council staff groups & interviews resources, Storytime spaces & accessibility libraries Govt over 4 year period libraries annually from accross the organisation speak English at home. In descending order, the with a disability, unemployed, Indigenous and the NSW Covid-19 pandemic closures. The survey proportion of respondents born outside Australia • Executive Director of Riverina Regional Library multicultural communities. attracted 210 responses. were from: Iraq, Iran, Sudan, United Kingdom, • Friends of the Library There was a high level of agreement about the The total number of survey and community China, India, satisfaction New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, High Low satisfactionx need7.6m for a café people in the$60m library; and6.7m a highfundingx level people of 114m x 3.9m peoplex x research participants was 710. • community groups in the library – knitters, ForGermany, books, France,DVDs, e-Japan, Uruguay,For library Finland, size, meeting x Visited Australian Increase by NSW Statex Visits to public x x disagreement with the sentimentVisited that Australian libraries are Went to see x Storytime participants, high school and resources,Switzerland, Storytime USA, Bangladesh,spaces Malta, & accessibility Madagascar; libraries Govt overmuseums 4 year period libraries annually a play just places for books. university students, range of library users • 11 respondents identified as Aboriginal and • Youth Forum participants Torres Strait Islander. When asked to think expansively about the library • community centre co-ordinators and clients – current form, services and future possibilities – Low satisfaction 7.6m people$60mpeople6.7m fundingwere generally people114m upbeat6.3m and optimistic.x people Other3.9m peoplex 3.5m peoplex x at Tolland, Ashmont and Kooringal For library size, meeting Increase by NSW State x Visited Australian librariesVisited wereAustralian often citedVisits as to places publicVisited to Australianemulate orWent to see x Went to see an x x • State Library of NSW spaces & accessibility libraries Govt overmuseums 4 year period libraries annually a play learn from. Double Bay, Randwick,art galleries Ryde, Rockdale, opera or musical • Charles Sturt University “The library is starved for space. “It’s the one space where you are Geelong, Library at the Dock, Shellharbour, Yarra • Wagga Wagga TAFE Libraries, Moreton Bay are some of the specific Where will the expansion come not obligated to spend anything.” • Eastern Riverina Arts 7.6m people people114mexamples6.3m given. people peoplex people x from? 100,000 people will need Community member 6.7m 3.9m 3.5m x • Riverina Community College Visited Australian Visited Australian Visits toWhile Visitedpublic the Australian current libraryWent was to perceivedsee x as light, Went to see an x x bigger spaces.” libraries libraries artannually galleries opera or musical • Multicultural Council of Wagga Wagga museums sunny, welcoming anda playwell-resourced, it was also Councillor • 13 library managers/CEOs of NSW and Victorian described as formal, dull, lacking colour, cramped, regional and peri-urban library services. and too serious. 6.7m people 6.3m people3.9m people 3.5m peoplex x Visited Australian Visited Australian Went to see Went to see an x x museums art galleries a play opera or musical

6.3m people 3.5m people x Visited Australian Went to see an x art galleries opera or musical

12 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 13 Section 2 Research x x 16,000 x x People attend library x x Section 2 programs & events Research x x 16,000 350 x x x x People attend library Programs x x x x Section 2 programs & events per year, on average Research x x 16,000 350 x 181,801 x x x x x People attend library Programs x People used x x x x x programs & events per year, on average library in 2018/9

350 181,801 x 368 x x x x x Programs People used x Survey x x x x x per year, on average library in 2018/9 respondents

181,801 368 x 150 participantsx x x x x People used Survey x In workshops, focusx x x x x library in 2018/9 respondents groups & interviews

368 150 participantsx High satisfactionx x x x x Survey In workshops, focusx For books, DVDs, e-x x x x x respondents groups & interviews resources, Storytime

150 participants High satisfactionx Low satisfactionx x $60m fundingx x In workshops, focus For books, DVDs, e-x For library size, meetingx x Increase by NSW Statex x groups & interviews resources, Storytime spaces & accessibility Govt over 4 year period

“It’s a common place where you can BigHigh town satisfaction or regionalLow city? satisfactionx Associations7.6m people$60m fundingx 114m x Library ofx the future TheFor City books, of Wagga DVDs, Wagga e- is atFor a librarycrossroads, size, meeting a x ThereVisited are Australian few socialIncrease or cultural by NSWinstitutions Statex thatVisits to public x The invitation tox speculate on a possible future meet friends, or make new ones, share resources, Storytime spaces & accessibility libraries Govt over 4 year period libraries annually cusp, a transition point. At least this is how it can attract the depth of feeling and positive library produced an extraordinary range of ideas and improve connections.” was framed by numerous interviewees. The City’s associations people have for their libraries. The imaginative ideas and suggestions. Some ‘conservative’, ‘risk averse’, ‘country town’ identity citizens of Wagga Wagga are no exception. In suggestions involved designing new library buildings “I would like to see a vibrant is challenged by growth, greater diversity, and a workshops, meetings and the online survey, and places; expanded and new programs; and library, full of colour, beautiful Low satisfaction 7.6m people$60m6.7m funding people114m x 3.9m peoplex x moreFor library ‘progressive’ size, meeting mindset. Visited Australian Increasepeople byVisited NSW described AustralianState theVisits library to publicand its meaningx toWent to see x radically differentx library collections. and comfortable, it should be an spaces & accessibility libraries Govt overthemmuseums 4 year in periodhighly expressivelibraries ways, annually ranging from thea play experience to be here not just a place Potbound plant pragmatic to the poetic. A small sample of comments: to pick up materials.” The library is ‘potbound’. It has outgrown its There were four dominant metaphors used. camping equipment; 3D printers; DIY tools; home, and its programming success continues to People viewed the library as a place of discovery, cameras and tripods; stage lighting; recording “I can’t tell you how important Baby 7.6m people 6.7m people114m6.3m people3.9m peoplex 3.5m peoplex x highlightVisited Australian its current deficiencies.Visited Increasing Australian theVisits toadventure, Visitedpublic Australian treasure Wentand wonder. to see It wasx a refugeWent, to see an x studio; small theatre;x power tools; board Bounce has been for me as a young Citylibraries Library’s footprint and availabilitymuseums of flexiblelibraries haven, artannually galleries retreat, heaven.a play opera or musical games; science kits; lego technics; musical mother. I’ve met some great people. learning spaces was a recurrent theme across all instruments; Abobe creative suite; glue guns; gym It acted as a village green, meeting place research modes. equipment; toys; sewing machines; easel and It should be on every day. Will be and community hub; it was perceived as safe, loom; headphones; whipper snipper; telescopes; going to Storytime next.” welcoming egalitarian, inclusive and accepting. people people people people x puzzles; cake tins; robots; community languages; What’s6.7m not said 6.3m 3.9mIt embodied abundance3.5m, excess, comfortx and fun; Visited Australian Visited Australian Went to see Went to see an x x Wiradjuri signage; postal service; pop-up libraries “One Book, One Wagga - fabulous.” The consistency in views about and aspirations for it was free, environmentally sustainable, available museums art galleries a play opera or musical in suburbs; hammock; more Storytime and Baby the library was, paradoxically, reaffirmed by what to everyone, resourceful, an asset. people didn’t say. Not one person, in workshops, Bounce, more of everything currently on offer and While the library was perceived ‘sunny’, ‘fabulous’, interviews and survey, said that libraries were a ….. a Library Dog! ‘marvellous’, ‘lovely’, a ‘blessing’; it was also perceived thing of past, irrelevantpeople in the age of Google, a relic 6.3m 3.5mas ‘underfunded’, people ‘too small’ and ‘under-appreciated’.x fromVisited a previous Australian era, or any number of ill-informedWent to see an x perceptionsart galleries that often feature in contemporaryopera orPossibility musical library research projects. This is a positive and possibly unique finding. Now is the moment to reimagine the library service, people said. The library should be at the Ignition point for change centre of Council’s thinking and planning. The City needs more meeting, co-working, study With growth comes new possibilities – for revenue, and event spaces. This was the most frequently grants, developer contributions, the latest Community research How do you travel to and from the library? expressed need across all research groups. Creative technologies, new social and cultural infrastructure. The CBD location, combined with limited public Participants supported this expansive mindset. and cultural practitioners, refugee support groups, LIBRARY SIZE transport options, privileges car and foot knitters, students, Wiradjuri and First Nations The City also has a responsibility to the vulnerable, 500 Perceived gaps WW City Library x transport modes. Elders, teachers, community workers, legal and marginalised and disadvantaged. A majority of Flexible frequency mentioned meeting EQUITY OF ACCESS 368 responses, 0 skipped participants believed the library service reaches into study health information services, Councillors, planners, Lack of spaces LEARNING PROGRAMS COLLECTIONS critical to branch parents, kids - all articulated this need. The these communities in unique and practical ways, Physical/ growing structure Great, more car bicycle foot public mobility library was perceived as welcoming, multifaceted, and needs to be adequately resourced to continue city outreach online frequency needed/ keep transport scooter mobile & more places/ PARTNERSHIPS resource-rich and kind. It was described as a and deepen this work. pop-up fresh & broader diverse vibrant community and creative hub. options cross Shared 24/7 section of space & + Library access community services in of Things digital community/ creative + creative hubs “Everything needs “Community outreach is definitely + literacy 0 to scale up.” our biggest black hole.” higher importance lower 319 24 106 22 1 Councillor Friends of the Library

14 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 15 AFTER THE LOCKDOWN The show must go on An additional online survey was conducted during • Just being able to go there and browse quietly, Improve and/or continue? Wagga Wagga City Library produced and the Wagga Wagga City Library shutdown, as a favourite place in town!!! • I was really impressed with the story time distributed digital Storytime sessions in the result of NSW Health Covid-19 advice, between • Seeing the staff, having somewhere to go with sessions still being done. I thought that was a wake of Covid-19 library closures. The first March and June, 2020. kids, Storytime, getting new books each week. great initiative by the library staff. digital Storytime reached 16,292 people; was liked 99 times; shared 84 times; received 33 Some people extended their use of e-resources, • It was a joyous day when I heard you were • We need more mobile library services. positive comments. The Australian Library others discovered them for the first time. Online reopening and in all honesty, the only place I • Online Facebook Storytime, Baby Bounce.. and Information Association (ALIA) included Storytime and Baby Bounce sessions were really missed due to shutdown. expand to adults, author talks live streaming. Wagga in its honour roll of early adopters. appreciated. People missed the physical library: • Missed that it is always there, always available. • Increase range of physical and online books. atmosphere, books, staff and social connections. Two pre-recorded sessions were produced What surprised you? • Keep up promotion via email and FB. The questions were simple: each week. • Wide range of online titles, resources. • Stay open. • What library services did people use? Authors and publishers temporarily lifted • Slim catalogue on Borrowbox and the • Longer opening hours. • How did they find out about what was happening? copyright restrictions on people reading inadequate number of titles available for loan • Click and collect service. stories on broadcasting platforms. • What did they miss about their library? • Loved Facebook posts and Storytime. • Continue as is. Great service. The building • Did anything surprise them? • The fact that you have a social media presence. is welcoming and safe. Staff helpful. Good • What can the library keep doing? • How much the library means to us. resources. What did people miss during the shutdown? • How much I rely on the library. • Love the library - helpful staff - diverse resources - fact & fiction. • social interaction • I was surprised how much I used the library and • connection to community didn’t realise it. It was one of the things I missed • More sitting places - I know that has to be in most during the lock down. line with restrictions at the moment. I liked • quiet space to work, study, wait, read, use wifi it when there was free tea and coffee as an • I’d never thought about using ancestry.com, so I • space to meet with students, mentoring, incentive to do a survey. coaching etc. was surprised, firstly that I used it, and secondly, that I found something there of interest. • I like visiting the library as a comfortable, safe • physical books, newspapers, DVDs public space. I don’t feel comfortable in the • I didn’t realise how much we rely on access to • browsing shopping malls or street cafés. a wide range of children’s books. We’ve got a • Storytime, Baby Bounce, Book Club, knitting small house & a small budget, and so we can’t • Local library is so important to our family. We group buy or store enough books to sate the kids’ really appreciate having access to so much • library staff appetite for reading. literature, reference and educational resources. • ideas, inspiration • I thought it was awesome how quickly the • computers, printers library adapted, eg doing Storytime online - “I love Wagga Wagga library. great idea, kids loved it! It has a welcoming vibe.”

Services used during lockdown? How satisiﬁed were you with services used? How did you ﬁnd out what was happening? What is your age?

E-books Facebook Under 15 E-magazines Library website 15 to 24 Ancestry Library email/ 25 to 34 newsletter Newsbank 45 to 44 Newspaper Online 45 to 54 Radio Storytime 55 to 64 0 100 200 300 400 500 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% TV 65 to 74 E-books Ancestry Movie streaming Very satisfied Reasonably satisfied Instagram 75 to 84 E-magazines Newsbank Online Storytime Unsatisfied Very unsatisfied N/A

16 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 17 Case study 1: PLACE FOR THE IMAGINATION

As the community research demonstrates, people have complex views, Culture Community needs and perceptions in relation to the library. It is constrained and People noted that it was great to see Aboriginal, “Knowledge is not just about numbers,” an Elder expansive; taken for granted and a civic jewel. including Wiradjuri, literature and language says. Everyone goes quiet when she says this, all prominently displayed on the book shelves. More ears tuned to her next comments. It’s perfect Space could be done to welcome people to country and “We need to take what we know, all of the acknowledge the cultural specificity of place. information available, listen carefully to people, and A group of Wiradjuri and First Nations Elders and “For a start, there’s not enough of it, no where “If the airport can welcome people in Wiradjuri, and work with them to decide what’s important. What community leaders meets often at the library. It’s near the number of meeting spaces needed, and display our art, why not the library?” are our priorities as a city and community?” perfect, many say, one of their favourite places to it should be more colourful,” an Elder volunteers. just BE. Everyone laughs. “That’s right,” another says, “ there are huge glass “Well, if the library isn’t at the forefront of this, windows out there, crying out to be inscribed with we will struggle as a community. The library is When it’s hot, cold, when the kids need books “Yes,” says another person, “it feels like a fishbowl Wiradjuri.” our information storehouse. Even with everything or come to workshops, when you’re waiting for in this room. And the computers out there take up a online, we still need places to come to, even the someone, need wifi or a computer, to hold a book lot of space.” Craft, design, artworks, drawings, photos of Wiradjuri Elders and colour, were all mentioned as kids love coming here to learn,” someone notes. launch or meeting – there is no where better in town. “It’s bland, too formal; bring in lots more colour, necessary elements in a redesigned library. “We’ve got to make it easier for people,” another bright and bold, make it like Geelong Library.” It is central and safe “It’s great that the City now has a Wiradjuri walking comments. “You need a car to get here” More laughter. The group is buzzing now. “For the time we are here, it’s a place where we feel track and artworks in more places, why not the “Wouldn’t it be great if Wiradjuri was taught here in equal,” a respected Elder says. “I’m mystified,” a noted community leader explains. library? Bring it inside as well.” the library? Not just for our mob, but everyone.” “The space downstairs is really beautiful. Why “Any place that encourages learning and creativity, “Imagination. Science and maths are important, The ideas keep flowing until someone says they had doesn’t it open up to the lagoon? A more outside- especially for our kids, should be supported,” but places like this, places for the imagination are better get on with the meeting they were here for in inside connection. It would be great for kids to run another comments. needed for our community, and, for that matter, the first place. around, and for culture stuff as well.” everyone, especially our kids.” While Elders and leaders are positive about the Respected Aunty has the last word. ‘The river,” another says, “how about a library facing library, they are bursting with ideas about how it the river? That would be fantastic.” “It’s a community learning space here, a could better serve the Wagga Wagga community, space for everyone and everything, including and Wiradjuri culture and language in particular. the lagoon. Culture, country and modern technology. All combined. Tranquil like the river; vibrant like the sun.”

18 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 19 SECTION 2: REFERENCE POINTS

As the community research demonstrates, the people who use, visit, REFERENCE POINTS borrow from and enjoy the Wagga Wagga Library Service exhibit a high level of attachment and care. They are not indifferent to its future success, In this section: even when they are critical about its current constraints. - Wagga Wagga City Council has one of the smallest city library services in NSW. Summary of findings The total library staff cohort is small compared to benchmarked libraries, especially considering its - The Library is struggling to meet State Library of NSW standards in Wagga Wagga has a smaller library service status as a regional city library. compared to most major regional cities in relation to spatial footprint, opening hours and staffing ratios. NSW and Victoria. A new Agile Outreach Library, combined with a modest expansion of specialist staff positions, will - Examples of effective outreach services are presented. enable WWCL to better meet the community’s expressed needs and hopes for the future. - Four NSW and Victorian library case studies are presented as exemplars of the social, economic and cultural benefits libraries can generate if Glossary adequately supported by communities and governments. WWCL: Wagga Wagga City Library WWCC: Wagga Wagga City Council SLNSW: State Library of NSW LGA: Local Government Area

20 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 21 BENCHMARKS: NOW STANDARDS NSW Regional City Library Services State Library of NSW Standards

Location Population Staff in FTE Floorspace Library Spaces vs SLNSW recommended minimum standard per city service in sqm per city service 2020 2020 2040 Current Benchmark Target Albury 53,767 21.78 FTE 2,600 (Albury) Wagga Wagga SLNSW: 68,000 population SLNSW: 100,000 population City Library: 2 branches (combined Library/ 450 (Lavington) Museum) 3230 4065 3,050 sqm 1600 square metres square metres square metres Coffs Harbour 76,551 15.75 FTE 986 sqm (Coffs Harbour) 3 branches 460 sqm (Toormina) 450 sqm (Woolgoolga) Library opening hours vs SLNSW recommended minimum standard 1,896 sqm Wagga Wagga SLNSW: 68,000 population SLNSW: 100,000 population City Library: 53,240 14 FTE 1,976 sqm Dubbo * 53 62 1 Branch 53 hours per week hours per week (Member of Macquarie Regional hours per week Library Service - 10 branches) * Sunday opening hours were approved in the 2020/21 Griffith 26,882 7.6 FTE 1,548 sqm financial year 1 branch (Member of Western Riverina Staffing ratios vs SLNSW recommended minimum standard Library Service – 7 branches) Wagga Wagga SLNSW: 68,000 population SLNSW: 100,000 population Orange 42,056 10 FTE 1,306 sqm City Library: * 22.6 62 1 branch 18.7 FTE FTE (Member of Central West FTE Libraries – 7 branches) * Assumes 11.7FTE WWCL + equivalent of 7 FTE offsite from Port Macquarie 83,131 18 FTE 2,100 (Port Macquarie) Riverina Regional Library 3 branches 471 (Laurieton) (Member of Mid North Coast 580 (Wauchope) Library Service – 6 libraries) 3,151 sqm Collections vs SLNSW recommended minimum standard Wagga Wagga City Library SLNSW Cohort Comparison Tamworth 62,156 16 FTE 1,584 (Tamworth) * 2 Branches 220 (South Tamworth) 1.21 1.74 (Member of Central Northern 1,804 sqm items per capita items per capita Regional Library - 6 branches) = 78,030 items total (cohort median)

* Library size restricts collections kept on site Wagga Wagga 64,820 18.7* FTE 1,600sqm 1 branch + mobile service (*assumes 11.7FTE WWCL + Source: People Places: a guide for planning public buildings 2020 SLNSW (Member of Riverina Regional equivalent of 7 FTE offsite Library – 19 libraries + mobile from Riverina Regional service) Library)

Source: SLNSW Bibliostat Statistics year ending 2018/2019

22 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 23 FUTURE LIBRARY SERVICE MODELS

New generation outreach 24/7 kiosk/pods 24/7 Library services A number of regional library services also Part of West Gippsland Libraries. the Foster Library Library services have changed dramatically over provide 24/7 access to curated collections, was the first to offer 24/7 library access in Victoria the last 20 years, with mobile library delivery online membership and e-resources, WIFI and in 2019. having evolved significantly in the last ten years. comfortable seating. A small regional town of 1,200 people, Foster The current emphasis is on agility and flexibility; The Kiralee Library Pod is a good example. attracts high numbers of seasonal tourists. Around smaller vehicles, on demand delivery of library 25 per cent of the population is without internet resources, digitally enabled, capable of delivering access. People working longer hours and juggling multiple programs, place activators, and even multiple responsibilities appealed to the library to moving billboards for library advertising and What is a library kiosk? extend opening hours. promotion. Emerging technologies, combined The Kiralee Library Pod was launched by Ipswitch A $92,000 upgrade enabled the library to with generational change, will likely see library Libraries to meet the needs of a growing community. reconfigure spaces and install secure swipe card users select materials using virtual reality It was an Australian first when it opened outside the access to library collections. interfaces, check out materials online and have Kiralee Shopping Centre in October 2019. them immediately delivered, easily access more Interested library members were invited to register streaming platforms, and a range of options not The Library Pod offers: for the service and undertake a short occupational yet envisaged. • 24/7 access health and safety course. • curated collection, restocked daily Smaller vehicles also mean a specialist license New generation mobile library There is an opportunity for 24/7 kiosk access • self service vending machine access via mobile Blacktown City Council has a population of 372,000; across the city to be considered in appropriate is not required, enabling library staff to deliver phone or library card the service. by 2036 it will be 505,000. It is a richly layered locations. multicultural Western Sydney conurbation spanning • large touch screen for joining library, downloading an area of 246.9 km². There are five branch libraries; e-books, magazines, audio 150 schools; complex needs. • comfortable benches for sitting, if needed A library service review had identified gaps in service delivery, particularly outreach. A small van already provides library home visits. A new generation mobile library was needed. Blacktown sourced $120,000 in local priority grants from State Library of NSW, and $60,000 from Clubs NSW. A Mercedes Sprinter van was purchased and retrofitted: $60,000 for vehicle; $60,000 for retrofit. The Sprinter requires a C Class licence to drive. It has pull down shelving and display units on either side of the vehicle, which open and close, and contain different items depending on the audience. Agile Library Van Sophisticated sensors can detect movement and height; retractable awnings provide shade and Wollondilly Shire’s mobile library service includes two shelter. It offers library resources, high speed wifi, retrofitted Mercedes Sprinter vans, which visit 16 villages computers, printers, story time events. and towns on a weekly basis. They spend a minimum of 1.5 to a maximum of 3 hours at each location. This is not a van that people enter; its primary objective is to increase visibility, engage new users It costs Wollondilly approximately $100,000 pa to in new ways, and create a more permeable boundary fund the mobile library service. This includes between the physical library and community needs. salaries, vehicle maintenance, replacement fund and operational expenses. Launched in late 2019, it is already a fixture at ten busy railway stations; 12 community centres; shopping Vehicle size and flexibility enable the service to visit complexes; playgrounds and childcare facilities. schools, festivals, events and parks.

24 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 25 LEADING LIBRARIES

Libraries do more than any other cultural institution to promote community interaction and democratic cultural exchange; they support employment outcomes, provide spaces for creatives to create, support literacy and the literary arts, and collect and interpret unique local histories. The following four case studies show how regional city library services can support economic growth and cultural vitality.

Camden Council Geelong Library and South Western Sydney is one of Australia’s Heritage Centre fastest growing regions. Spanning the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre is part local government areas of Campbelltown, of the Geelong Regional Library Corporation. Camden and Wollondilly, new suburbs are Opened in 2015, and costing over $45.5 being created in what was once semi-rural million, visitation and usage have increased agricultural land. One such suburb, Oran by a massive 320 per cent. Park, is named after the car racing track upon which it is placed. Older Aboriginal tracks In 2016/17, Geelong Regional Libraries underpin its physical form, which will soon attracted nearly two million visits to library host over 30,000 homes. branches and mobile libraries. A lifelong Albury City Library, City of Greater Bendigo learning and cultural programming calendar The $14 million Oran Park Library and offered 6,255 separate programs and Museum and Gallery Bendigo Library, part of the Goldfields Library Community Centre opened in July 2018. attracted over 150,000 participants. The Opened in 2007, the Albury Library Museum Corporation, is situated in a 4000 square It is the product of a voluntary planning library generates income through its in- is a community hub bringing together state- metre purpose-built facility in the heart of agreement with the suburb’s principal demand venues. town. It contains a large collection of over developer. Council contributed $2 million; of-the-art technology, reading and research Geelong is a city in transition. The erosion of facilities, a diverse exhibition schedule, a 133,000 items, the latest multi media and the developer $12 million. Intended as a audio visual equipment, a cafe, research community anchor, it has attracted over its traditional industrial and manufacturing dynamic program of events, and a focus on the base is being replaced by a coordinated focus region’s heritage. Open seven days, it averages centre, regional archives, and volunteer 145,000 people since it opened. The library resource centre. Membership is over 40,000. boasts up-to-date technology, media labs, on learning, knowledge, urban revitalisation 4,000 visitors each week. Albury City has a and culture. There are significant pockets branch library located at Lavington, which also There are around 1,144,000 visits per year. study spaces, learning areas for children, The library offers around 2,000 programs audio-visual technologies, meeting rooms, of disadvantage. Around 40 per cent of contains exhibition, meeting, research, and co- library members are on incomes of less than located citizen services spaces. a year, with 33 per cent of the community café, and a large community hall for hire. attending. It opened in 2014 and cost $9.12 Contemporary visual art and sculpture, $30,000 per annum. The museum collection contains over 20,000 million. Recent economic analysis estimates with an emphasis on ‘tracks’ both racing While the City of Greater Geelong’s objects and includes pieces of national and the library alone returns $27.4 million annually and Indigenous, are strategically placed population is around 250,000, it is international significance. The converged in benefits to the Greater Bendigo community throughout the multi-level, 2,500 square included here because so many research library and museum model has been an and economy. metre site. participants cited the Geelong Library as outstanding success. In addition, Albury an exemplar. The award-winning Geelong LibraryMuseum staff have become research Importantly, the library is part of a dynamic Camden’s population is currently 96,000; cultural ecology and economy. Bendigo Art it is predicted to grow to 233,000 by Library and Heritage Centre occupies leaders and advocates for the benefits of six floors, and 6000 square metres. Its converged cultural services. Gallery is one of the most successful regional 2036. It has three library branches – galleries in Australia. Joint programming and Camden, Narellan, Oran Park – and outstanding success has been followed Albury City population is 52,723. collaboration occur across all of Bendigo’s another planned for Leppington. The by a new branch library at Leopold in cultural institutions. library service has 20 fte staff, and a 2018, and three more libraries coming range of casual positions. on line before 2022. City of Greater Bendigo has a population of 110,000.

26 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 27 SECTION 3: GROWTH WAMARRA (BUILD) + GURRAY (CHANGE)

Wagga Wagga’s growth forecasts are well publicised and discussed. THEMES As a designated regional growth hub, Wagga Wagga’s population is predicted to grow to 100,000 by 2038. The current population growth In this section: rate of 1.00 per cent will need to reach 2.1 per cent in order to achieve Community research identified two interconnected themes: this target. Organic population growth will be augmented with various Growth – as the City of Wagga Wagga’s population and economy grows, forms of migration – city to region, skilled migration, refugee intake. there are tensions between what is gained and what is lost; what is Substantial growth In 2018, there were around 38,000 jobs in perceived as an opportunity or challenge. Wagga Wagga. The city is planning for substantial growth around People and Place – research participants were optimistic about the kind of Estella, Boorooma and Bomen in the north, and The Riverina Region, of which the City of Wagga Wagga is an integral player, will need to generate place Wagga Wagga is becoming. In particular, its capacity to be a ‘liveable’ around the airport to the east. Wagga Wagga City Council has masterplans in place for its industrial, 14,000 additional jobs by 2038*. city; a welcoming and tolerant place. knowledge and health precincts. Wagga Wagga is fortunate to have a hybrid The Wagga Wagga City Library is perceived as a positive force in supporting Improving access to the river through the Riverside knowledge, health and aged care economy. Project stages will create new event and recreation While agriculture is important, the long term the City’s economic growth and social cohesion. opportunities. Infill development in Wagga’s CBD is future will likely see the knowledge and creative forecast to grow. industries flourish. * Figures supplied by WWCC planners

28 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 29 Section 1 Growth Identity Culture 100,000 2.5m 8m City by 2038 Australians without International tourists Section 1 internet access visited Aust in 2017 Growth Identity Culture

100,000 $167m 2.5m 5m people8m 3.5m City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustralians without By 2030 will be International tourists International tourists Section 1 upgrade internet access aﬀected by disruptionvisited Aust in 2017 engaged with the arts Growth Identity Culture

100,000 $167m 2.5m$3m 5m people8m Start-ups3.5m 72% Aussies City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustraliansWagga without sale By 2030 will be InternationalThe tourists largest contributorInternational tourists Aged over 15 engaged Section 1 upgrade internet accessyards upgrade aﬀected by disruptionvisited Austto in job 2017 creation engaged with the arts in arts events in 2017 Growth Identity Culture

100,000 $167m 2.5m$3m 5m people$400m8m Start-ups3.5m70% 72% Aussies $1.88b City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustraliansWagga without sale By 2030 willWagga be International sale yardsThe tourists largest contributorInternational Start-ups tourists are foundedAged over 15 engaged Revenue generated by Section 1 upgrade internet accessyards upgrade aﬀected byturnover disruptionvisited Austto in job 2017 creation engaged withby the25-44 arts year-oldsin arts events in 2017 performing arts in 2017 Growth Identity Culture

100,000 2.5m$167m $3m 8m5m people$400mStart-ups$10m3.5m70% 72% AussiesGen Z $1.88b $280m City by 2038 AustraliansWagga withoutBase Hospital Wagga sale InternationalBy 2030 tourists willWagga be sale yardsThe largest EunonycontributorInternational Bridge Start-ups tourists are foundedAged over 15Born engaged 1995-2010 Revenuewill generated by Income loss to the arts Section 1 internetupg raccessade yards upgradevisitedaﬀected Aust in by 2017turnover disruption to job creationupgradeengaged withby the25-44 arts year-oldsin arts eventshave in 5 2017diﬀerent careersperforming arts in 2017 due to coronavirus Growth Identity Culture

100,000 $167m 2.5m 5m$3m people8m $400m3.5mStart-ups$10m 70%5.6%72% AussiesGen Z $1.88bGen Z $280m 6.4% GDP City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustralians without By 2030Wagga will sale be International touristsWagga sale InternationalyardsThe largest tourists Eunonycontributor Bridge Start-ups areAre founded Wiradjuri/Aged over 15Born engaged 1995-2010 willRevenue generatedBorn 1995-2010 by Incomewill loss to the arts To the economy from Section 1 upgrade internet access affectedyards by upgrade disruptionvisited Aust in 2017turnover engagedto job with creation theupgrade arts by 25-44 year-oldsFirst Nationsin arts eventshave in 5 2017different careersperforming artshave in 17 2017 different jobsdue to coronavirus the arts in 2016/7 Growth Identity Culture

100,000 $167m 2.5m$3m 5m people8m Start-ups$400m3.5m $10m72%70% Aussies5.6% Gen 9%Z $1.88bGen Z $280mAus students6.4% GDP Arts = jobs City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustraliansWagga without sale By 2030 will be InternationalThe tourists largestWagga contributor sale Internationalyards touristsEunony BridgeAged Start-upsover 15 engaged areAre founded Wiradjuri/ Born 1995-2010Are born Revenuewill generatedBorn 1995-2010 by willIncome lossWorst to the international arts To test the economy from More people employed Section 1 upgrade internet accessyards upgrade affected by disruptionvisited Austto in job 2017turnover creation engaged with theupgrade arts in artsby events 25-44 inyear-oldsFirst 2017 Nations have 5 differentoverseas careersperforming artshave in 17 2017 different jobsdue to coronavirusresults recorded in the2019 arts in 2016/7 than mining or IT Growth Identity Culture

12.3 m domestic 100,000 $167m 2.5m$3m 5m people$400m8m Start-ups3.5m70%$10m72% Aussies5.6%$1.88bGen 9%Z Gen 24.3%Z $280mAus students6.4%NSW GDP Arts = jobs tourists attended a City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustraliansWagga without sale By 2030 willWagga be International sale yardsThe tourists largest contributorInternational Start-ups touristsEunony are BridgefoundedAged over 15 engagedAre Wiradjuri/RevenueBorn generated 1995-2010Are by born will Born 1995-2010Aged under Incomewill 18; loss Worst to the international arts To test the economyBiggest from drop in reading,More people employed local art gallery, upgrade internet accessyards upgrade affected byturnover disruptionvisited Austto in job 2017 creation engaged withby the25-44upgrade arts year-oldsin arts events inFirst 2017 Nationsperforminghave 5 arts different inoverseas 2017 careers have 17 differentmedian jobsdue age to is coronavirus 35results recorded in the2019 arts in science2016/7 & maths in than2019 mining or IT concert or festival

12.3 m domestic Only 5.5 m domestic A$167m liveable city $3m 5m peopleShadow$400m sideStart-ups$10m3.5m70% 72% AussiesGenInvesting5.6% Z $1.88b in libraries9% $280mGenGrowing 24.3%Z cityAus students20.7%6.4%NSW GDP Arts =80% jobs tourists attended a tourists attended an Wagga Base Hospital Wagga sale By 2030 willWagga be sale yardsThe largest EunonycontributorInternational Bridge Start-ups tourists are foundedAged over 15Born engagedAre 1995-2010 Wiradjuri/ Revenuewill generatedAre by born IncomeBorn loss 1995-2010 to theAged arts under will 18; Worst internationalAged 60To test the economyBiggest from drop in reading,More peopleOlder employed Australianslocal feel art gallery, To accommodate the projected population growth The optimism that infuses the growth narrative Ambitious regional cities in NSW and Victoria have For a large regional city, Wagga Wagga has one of organised sporting upgrade yards upgrade affected byturnover disruption to job creationupgradeengaged withby the25-44 arts year-oldsin arts eventshave in First5 2017different Nations careersperforming arts inoverseas 2017 due tohave coronavirus 17 differentmedian jobs age is 35 results recordedor over in the2019 arts in science2016/7 & maths in 2019than miningyounger or IT than theyconcert are or festival event of the City, it is estimated that around 25,000 new is powerful, but it also has a shadow side. Not invested in their libraries as an adjunct to growth. the smallest library services in NSW and Victoria. homes will be needed. The City’s current housing everyone is or will be a beneficiary of economic Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat, Albury-Wodonga, Coffs The capacity to offer programs, resources and stock growth of 350-400 dwellings per year will expansion and change. Harbour, Lismore, Port Macquarie, Tamworth, support across the community is constrained by 12.3 m domestic Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic Aussies GDP students Ranked #= need$3m to increase to 750 dwellings$400m per year. Start-upsThere$10m are already pockets70% of significant5.6%72% Gen Z $1.88bGenShellharbour,9% Z $280mWollongong, Newcastle24.3% – have6.4% eitherAus the20.7% absence of a branchNSW network andArts limited mobile 1480% jobs tourists attended a tourists attended an tourists visited a Wagga sale Wagga sale yardsThe largest Eunonycontributor Bridge Start-ups areAre founded Wiradjuri/Aged over 15Born engaged 1995-2010 willRevenue generatedBornAre 1995-2010 by born Incomewill loss to theAged arts under To18; the Worst economy internationalAged from 60 test Biggest dropIn in NSW reading,More for incidentspeopleOlder employed Australians localfeel art gallery, organised sporting The style of housing will also need to change. The disadvantage in Wagga Wagga’s suburbs and rural expanded their library networks or plan to. library options. local monument or yards upgrade turnover to job creationupgrade by 25-44 year-oldsFirst Nationsin arts eventshave in 5 2017 different careersperforming artshave inoverseas 17 2017 different jobsdue to coronavirusmedian age theis 35 artsresults in 2016/7 recordedor over in 2019 science & mathsof domestic in than2019 mining violenceyounger or IT than theyconcert are or festival event 400k a casino current preference for four bedroom detached or villages. Around 21 per cent of current households Australian public libraries return a minimum of Wagga Wagga City Library hosts around 350 learning semi-detached housing, which comprises 90 per are classified as low income. The same percentage $4.30 for every dollar spent. Economists say the and cultural programs each year. In 2018/19, 16,000 cent of new dwellings, will need to make way for of households report little or no broadband internet real return is likely to be higher as many benefits are people attended these programs. This12.3 is in m addition domestic Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic the$400m different housing needs of$10m the fastest growing70% telecommunications.5.6% Gen There is 9% Za high$1.88b correlationGen Z $280mAusdifficult24.3% students to quantify.6.4% GDP20.7%ArtsNSW = jobstoRanked the 181,801 people # 1480% using the librarytourists service attended to a tourists attended an tourists visited a demographic,Wagga sale yards namely single dwellersEunony Bridgeand couples.Start-ups between areAre founded Wiradjuri/ suburbs classifiedBorn 1995-2010 asAre disadvantaged born Revenuewill generated Born 1995-2010 by willIncome lossWorst to theAged international arts under To18; test the economyAged from 60 More Biggestpeople dropemployedstudy,In in NSW reading, read, for use incidents computers,Older Australians and borrowlocal feel library art gallery, organised sporting local monument or turnover upgrade by 25-44 year-oldsFirst Nations have 5 differentoverseas careersperforming artshave in 17 2017 different jobsdue to coronavirusresultsInmedian 2018/9, recorded agemore in the2019is than35 arts 110 in 2016/7millionor overpeople visitedthan scienceminingan &or maths ofIT domestic in 2019 violenceyounger than theyconcert are or festival event 400k a casino A combination of infill development and land according to the SEIFA index – Ashmont, Tolland, Australian library, making libraries the most visited materials in physical and digital formats. rezoning will need to balance housing demand with Kooringal and Mount Austin – and residency of cultural institution across the country. In NSW, there The library supports the needs of a urban planning, infrastructure, environmental and Wagga’s 5.6 per cent Aboriginal and Torres Strait were 34 million physical visits to public libraries in domesticgrowing city through its: Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic cultural considerations. Islander population. 12.3 m $10m 5.6% Gen 9%Z Gen 24.3%Z $280mAus students6.4%NSW GDP2018/19,20.7% and 12.1Arts million = virtual jobsRanked visits. tourists # 1480% attended• Language a Café program tourists attended an tourists visited a Eunony Bridge Are Wiradjuri/ Born 1995-2010Are born will Born 1995-2010Aged under Incomewill 18; loss Worst to the international arts To test the economyBiggestAged from drop 60 in reading,More people employedIn NSW for incidentsOlder Australians feel Recent studies confirm that population and Wagga Wagga is also an increasingly multicultural local art gallery,• Storytime and Baby Bounce sessionsorganised sporting local monument or upgrade First Nations have 5 differentoverseas careers have 17 differentmedian jobsdue age to is coronavirus 35results recorded in the2019 arts in science2016/7Moreor & over peoplemaths in go than2019 to librariesmining or than ITof domesticthe combinedconcert violence younger or festival than they are event 400k a casino housing stock growth needs to be accompanied city, and a designated refugee resettlement number of people attending sporting events across • Book clubs by adequate social and transport infrastructure. centre. Around 10 per cent of the population all codes. • Tech-savvy digital classes Access to essential community and cultural services was born overseas; 112 different languages are 12.3 m domestic Only 5.5 m domestic• computers, tablets, e-resources andOnly online 5.6 m domestic is often lagging in regional areas compared to spoken. Highly qualified people with culturally and Regional city library services generate economic, 5.6% 9% Gen 24.3%Z Aus students20.7%6.4%NSW GDP Arts =80% jobsRankedtourists # 14 attended a tourists attendedplatforms an tourists visited a Australia’sAre Wiradjuri/ eight capital cities.Are This born gap contributesBorn 1995-2010linguisticallyAged underwill different 18; Worst backgrounds, internationalAged 60To testreported the economy Biggestthat from drop in reading,More peopleOlder employedsocialIn Australians NSW and for cultural incidentslocal feel artbenefits. gallery, Libraries support local monument or organised sporting• information navigation support and workshops toFirst people’s Nations perceptions of a city’soverseas ‘liveability’ have 17 differenttheymedian are jobs often age is unable 35 results to gain recorded oremployment over in the2019 arts in in their 2016/7science & maths in 2019than miningyounger ormultiple ofIT domestic than uses theyconcert and violenceare users; or festival while helping toevent support 400k a casino and vitality, and inevitably its attractiveness and chosen profession. knowledge-based economic growth, they work - legal, consumer rights, women’s health, driver hard to minimise the potential for unequal access safety. economic performance. Some regional centres A cluster of factors compound economic perform well in this regard and even outperform 12.3 m domesticto opportunitiesOnly that 5.5 rapid m domestic economic growthOnly 5.6 m domestic• study and group meeting spaces 9% 24.3% Ausand students20.7% social disadvantage:NSW unemploymentRankedArts or # = 1480% jobs tourists attendedinevitably a produces.tourists attended an tourists visited• ascience and sustainability festivals, programs smaller capital cities. Aged under 18; Biggest drop in reading, Are born Worst internationalunderemployment;Aged 60 test a rise in privateIn NSW rentalMore for incidentspeople optionsOlder employed Australians localfeel art gallery, organised sporting local monumentand or events overseas median age is 35results recordedvsor public over in 2019 housing; limitedscience public& mathsof domestic transport in than2019 mining violence options;younger or IT than theyconcert are or festival event 400k a casino • literacy and literature related programs and events arrested literacy, learning and English language skills; low percentage of students completing • welcoming spaces for homeless people (all seasons) theRanked HSC; diminished# health, education12.3 and m civic domestic Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic 24.3% 20.7% NSWparticipation outcomes. 1480% tourists attended a tourists attended an tourists visited a • technology assistance for unemployed people - Aged under 18; Aged 60 Biggest dropIn in NSW reading, for incidentsOlder Australianslocal feel art gallery, organised sporting local monument or job applications, resumes and cover letters median age is 35 or over science & mathsof domestic in 2019 violenceyounger than theyconcert are or festival event a casino Growth is an engine of possibility, but it can be 400k • assistance to users with low technology skills unevenly distributed. to navigate Government websites – passport The upbeat language with which manyOnly described 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic applications, MyGov website, Centrelink, 20.7% Ranked # 1480%Wagga Wagga’s future growth prospectstourists will attended an tourists visited a police checks. Aged 60 In NSW for incidentsOlder Australiansbe tempered feel by the scale of post pandemicorganised sporting local monument or See bibliography references: These programs, capabilities and resources are a or over of domestic violenceyounger thanrecovery they areneeded. event 400k a casino 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 18, 19, 26, 27, 28, 31 lifeline for many.

Only 5.6 m domestic Ranked # 14 tourists visited a In NSW for incidents local monument or of domestic violence 400k a casino

30 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 31 Section 1 Growth Identity Culture 100,000 2.5m 8m City by 2038 Australians without International tourists Section 1 internet access visited Aust in 2017 Growth Identity Culture

100,000 $167m 2.5m 5m people8m 3.5m City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustralians without By 2030 will be International tourists International tourists upgrade internet access aﬀected by disruptionvisited Aust in 2017 engaged with the arts

$167m $3m 5m people Start-ups3.5m 72% Aussies Wagga Base Hospital Wagga sale By 2030 will be The largest contributorInternational tourists Aged over 15 engaged upgrade yards upgrade aﬀected by disruption to job creation engaged with the arts in arts events in 2017

$3m $400mStart-ups 70% 72% Aussies $1.88b Wagga sale Wagga sale yardsThe largest contributor Start-ups are foundedAged over 15 engaged Revenue generated by yards upgrade turnover to job creation by 25-44 year-oldsin arts events in 2017 performing arts in 2017

$400m $10m 70% Gen Z $1.88b $280m Wagga sale yards Eunony Bridge Start-ups are founded Born 1995-2010 Revenuewill generated by Income loss to the arts turnover upgrade by 25-44 year-olds have 5 diﬀerent careersperforming arts in 2017 due to coronavirus

$10m 5.6% Gen Z Gen Z $280m 6.4% GDP Eunony Bridge Are Wiradjuri/ Born 1995-2010 will Born 1995-2010 Incomewill loss to the arts To the economy from upgrade First Nations have 5 diﬀerent careers have 17 diﬀerent jobsdue to coronavirus the arts in 2016/7

5.6% 9% Gen Z Aus students6.4% GDP Arts = jobs Are Wiradjuri/ Are born Born 1995-2010 will Worst internationalTo test the economy from More people employed First Nations overseas have 17 diﬀerent jobs results recorded in the2019 arts in 2016/7 than mining or IT

12.3 m domestic 9% 24.3% Aus students NSW Arts = jobs tourists attended a Are born Aged under 18; Worst international test Biggest drop in reading,More people employed local art gallery, overseas median age is 35results recorded in 2019 science & maths in than2019 mining or IT concert or festival

12.3 m domestic Only 5.5 m domestic 24.3% 20.7% NSW 80% tourists attended a tourists attended an Aged under 18; Aged 60 Biggest drop in reading, Older Australianslocal feel art gallery, organised sporting median age is 35 or over science & maths in 2019 younger than theyconcert are or festival event

Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domesticCase study 2: 20.7% Ranked # 1480% $4.30 tourists attended an tourists visited a Aged 60 In NSW for incidentsOlder AustraliansReturn feel on investment organised sporting local monument or or over of domestic violenceyounger thanin theypublic are libraries event 400k a casinoA BIT OF MAGIC

Only 5.6 m domestic ARanked complex # 14and growing The City Library is a trustedtourists source visited a The Ngurra Youth Hub Wiradjuri Storytime In NSW for incidents local monument or city will need more. of information, research tools and Sophia* lives in Ashmont. She is a proud Wiradjuri “I would love to see a Wiradjuri Storytime,” she says. of domestic violence learning platforms. 400k a casino The future library will include: woman who visits the Ngurra Youth Hub everyday. “I don’t speak Wiradjuri well, and I would love the It is a lifeline. When she lost her job and had to kids to learn.” • access to and training in digital platforms, relinquish her car, she spent a lot of time at home. technologies, digital arts Looking out at the Park from the Ngurra Youth Hub Too much time. “There is just so much cooking, • support for arts and creative industries verandah, Sophia and her friends wonder aloud if a cleaning and sleeping you can do,” says Sophia. pop-up library might one day appear. • employment support “I like to be with people.” • cross-generational learning programs, events It wouldn’t take much, they say, to build something and classes Sophia attends all of the classes and activities special. A story pod, a culture nest; sustainable available. She enjoys the women’s art group, the • 24/7 access to library resources and spaces materials, colour; something that would work for community garden, yarning and cups of tea out on • pop-up digital access, programs and information all ages and all kinds of stories, dreamtime and the verandah overlooking the Park. delivered via Agile Library vehicles to all suburbs otherwise. A bit of magic. and villages. When Sophia had a car she took her kids to the *Name changed Central Library often. She and the kids loved it. Education is paramount to her children’s future. She says she would do anything to support access to learning. Without a car, getting to the library is “I would love to see a Wiradjuri hard, if not impossible. Sophia welcomes the idea of Storytime, I don’t speak Wiradjuri a regular mobile library in Ashmont. Books, DVDs, well, and I would love the kids picture books, magazines, tablets and wifi. Most to learn.” of all, she thinks the library’s learning programs would be fantastic. Digital skills, Storytime, author WHAT PEOPLE SAY... talks, science and maths activities – all of these are needed and would work. “Population growth will increase the “People not really aware of the growth diversity in views and cultures. We will and change in our community, the need safe spaces to accommodate multicultural diversity that’s here. We differences. Libraries are welcoming are an interesting community right now. and inclusive and help set the scene Awareness is growing, but people still for the kind of community we are and live in conservative bubbles. Therefore, need to be.” we don’t celebrate our diversity as much Education stakeholder as we could.” Education stakeholder “I like the idea of the hub and spoke model, the role of a city library is “I’ve got more chance of bumping important, but the infrastructure also into a nurse than a farmer here, but needs to be out where people are.” Wagga still views itself as ‘country’, as Councillor an agricultural town, and while we are surrounded by that, we are more of a “The library is one of the most health and education city.” important community assets.” Councillor City planner

32 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 33 Section 1 Growth Identity Culture 100,000 2.5m 8m City by 2038 Australians without International tourists Section 1 internet access visited Aust in 2017 Growth Identity Culture

PEOPLE AND PLACE 100,000 $167m 2.5m$3m 5m people$400m8m Start-ups3.5m70% 72% Aussies $1.88b City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustraliansWagga without sale By 2030 willWagga be International sale yardsThe tourists largest contributorInternational Start-ups tourists are foundedAged over 15 engaged Revenue generated by MAYINY-BU NGURANGBU (PEOPLE AND PLACE) upgrade internet accessyards upgrade aﬀected byturnover disruptionvisited Austto in job 2017 creation engaged withby the25-44 arts year-oldsin arts events in 2017 performing arts in 2017

If you are new to town; if you need a place to meet; a place to study$167m or read; $3m Inclusive5m people$400m places Start-ups$10m3.5mHigh70% and low72% GenAussies Z $1.88b $280m use a computer or free wifi; hold a workshop or mentor a colleague;Wag findga Base refuge Hospital Wagga sale By 2030 willWagga be sale yardsThe largestEunony contributorInternational Bridge Start-ups tourists are foundedAged over 15Born engaged 1995-2010 Revenuewill generated by Income loss to the arts upgrade yards upgrade Librariesaffected welcome byturnover disruption more usersto and job usescreationupgrade than engaged withTheby thepublic25-44 arts libraryyear-olds representsin arts events onehave in of 5 2017 differentthe few careersperforming arts in 2017 due to coronavirus from fires, floods and disruption of every kind; the library is always there. any other cultural institution. Physical spaces remaining ‘low intensity’ spaces available. and material collections are complemented by ‘High intensity’ meeting places enable us to live out e-resources and online streaming platforms. • providing access to technology, wifi, study and or pursue our primary interests with like-minded Psychology of place $3m $400mMobileStart-ups library$10m services, interlibrary70% lending5.6% 72% AussiesGen Z $1.88bGen Z $280m 6.4% GDP learning spaces Wagga sale Wagga sale yardsThe largest contributor Start-ups areAre founded Wiradjuri/Aged overpeople 15Born engaged 1995-2010or alone. Whether willRevenue physical generatedBorn or 1995-2010 virtual by these Incomewill loss to the arts To the economy from There are many lenses through which notions of networks, localEunony history Bridge and online collections • offering lifelong learning classesyards and upgrade resources, turnover to job creationupgrade by 25-44 year-oldsFirst Nationsin arts events‘spaces’have in 5 2017different are important, careersperforming but vibrant artshave in democracies17 2017 different jobsdue to coronavirus the arts in 2016/7 ‘place’ can be framed and experienced. Maps, zones, extend services beyond the walls of the physical skills, digital inclusion rely on us cultivating arenas where we meet and are plans, wards, transport routes and demographics are library. In some places, shopping centre pop- exposed to people with different interests and values. everyday lenses for local governments. • building partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres up and kiosk libraries enable 24 hour access to Strait Islander communities, multicultural curated collections and online platforms. Low intensity spaces enable us to become visible to However, people live and work in a place that $400m $10m 70%5.6% Gen 9%Z $1.88bGen Z $280mAus students6.4% GDP Arts = jobs communities, arts and culturalWagga organisations sale yards Eunony Bridge Start-ups areAre founded Wiradjuri/ Born 1995-2010Are born Revenuewill generatedeachBorn other 1995-2010 by across willsocialIncome and loss culturalWorst to the international arts demarcationsTo test the economy from More people employed means something to them. This psychology of place Scholars say that inclusive and resilient • complementing educational institutionsturnover by upgrade by 25-44 year-oldsFirst Nations have 5 differentoverseas careersperforming– arts haveethnic, in 17 2017 differentgenerational, jobsdue class,to coronavirus abilityresults recordedand beliefs. in the2019 arts in 2016/7 than mining or IT uses a different vocabulary – memories, feelings, communities need public places like libraries. providing authoritative information, knowledge These spaces are critical to the kind of tolerance that relationships, associations and metaphors. For Public libraries contribute to building social capital, and research skills; reading and literacy democratic societies need in order to build workable Wiradjuri, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social harmony and cohesion; they help develop programs; history and heritage resources levels of shared experience, values and trust. 12.3 m domestic peoples generally, place is inextricably bound up $10m 5.6% civicGen skills and 9%Z consciousnessGen through the 24.3%Z shared$280m Aus students6.4%NSW GDP Arts = jobs tourists attended a in belonging – to country, totem, songlines and • supporting lively civic spaces, Eunonyactive citizenship, Bridge Are Wiradjuri/ stewardshipBorn 1995-2010Are of public born will space. Born 1995-2010Aged under Incomewill 18; loss HighWorst to the and international arts low intensityTo test the places economy Biggestconverge from drop in in public reading,More people employed local art gallery, dreaming stories. cultural stimulation upgrade First Nations have 5 differentoverseas careers have 17 differentmedian jobsdue age to is coronavirus 35libraries.results recorded in 2019the arts in science2016/7 & maths in than2019 mining or IT concert or festival • supporting artists, writers and the creative Wagga Wagga residents have described their city Storytime is a good example. Parents and industries; enhancing cultural and arts tourism library using similar metaphors and associations. grandparents bring kids to Storytime to expose initiatives See bibliography references: 12.3 m domestic Only 5.5 m domestic They see the library as a place of discovery and 5.6% 9% 1,Gen 3, 7, 8, 9, 17,24.3%Z 20, 21, 22, 24, 25,Aus 28, 29, students20.7% 30 6.4%themNSW GDP to reading, literatureArts and =80% jobsshared storytelling.tourists attended a tourists attended an refuge; a village green; a resource that keeps on • improving the liveability of the AreWagga Wiradjuri/ Are born Born 1995-2010Aged under will 18; Worst internationalAged 60To test the economyInBiggest this sense, from drop inthey reading, areMore using people theOlder employed library Australians as a highlocal feel art gallery, organised sporting giving. They want it to keep doing what it does well: Wagga region by nurturing culturalFirst Nationsdiversity, overseas have 17 differentmedian jobs age is 35 results recordedor over inthe 2019 arts inintensity science2016/7 & place maths to in realise 2019than mining a needyounger or for IT pre-school than theyconcert are or festival event community engagement, and equitable access • supporting people in transition – into retirement, education and entertainment. to cultural experiences. into contemporary work, from one job or While in the library,12.3 they mexperience domestic its low intensityOnly 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic industry to another 9% 24.3% Aus students20.7% NSWRankedArts #potential. = 1480% jobs tourists attended a tourists attended an tourists visited a Are born Aged under 18; Worst internationalAged 60 test Biggest dropIn in NSW reading,More for incidentspeopleOlder employed Australians localfeel art gallery, organised sporting local monument or Storytime attracts a diverse mix of parents, carers overseas median age is 35results recordedor over in 2019 science & mathsof domestic in than2019 mining violenceyounger or IT than theyconcert are or festival event 400k a casino and kids. It is held in a civic space that welcomes everybody and allows for incidental encounters 12.3 m domesticacross sociodemographicOnly 5.5 boundaries. m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic 24.3% 20.7% NSWRanked # 1480% tourists attended a tourists attended an tourists visited a Aged under 18; Aged 60 Biggest dropIn in NSW reading, for incidentsOlder Australianslocal feel art gallery, organised sporting local monument or median age is 35 or over science & mathsof domestic in 2019 violenceyounger than theyconcert are or festival event 400k a casino

Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic 20.7% Ranked # 80%14 tourists attended an tourists visited a Aged 60 In NSW for incidentsOlder Australians feel organised sporting local monument or or over of domestic violenceyounger than they are event 400k a casino “I would like to see Council take a leadership role in bringing people together to learn and move forward as one community. These actions would need to be Ranked # resourced adequately to ensure their Onlyongoing 5.6 m viability domestic and to ensure commitment 14 is more than tokenistic.” tourists visited a In NSW for incidents local monument or of domestic violence Aunty Kath Withers, Wiradjuri Elder, RAP (2019) 400k a casino

34 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 35 Section 1 Growth Identity Culture 100,000 2.5m 8m City by 2038 Australians without International tourists Section 1 internet access visited Aust in 2017 Growth Identity Culture

100,000 $167m 2.5m$3m 5m people$400m8m Start-ups3.5m70% 72% Aussies $1.88b City by 2038 Wagga Base HospitalAustraliansWagga without sale By 2030 willWagga be International sale yardsThe tourists largest contributorInternational Start-ups tourists are foundedAged over 15 engaged Revenue generated by upgrade internet accessyards upgrade aﬀected byturnover disruptionvisited Austto in job 2017 creation engaged withby the25-44 arts year-oldsin arts events in 2017 performing arts in 2017

$167m $3m 5m people$400mStart-ups$10m3.5m70% 72% AussiesGen Z $1.88b $280m Wagga Base Hospital Wagga sale By 2030 willWagga be sale yardsThe largest EunonycontributorInternational Bridge Start-ups tourists are foundedAged over 15Born engaged 1995-2010 Revenuewill generated by Income loss to the arts upgrade yards upgrade aﬀected byturnover disruption to job creationupgradeengaged withby the 25-44 arts year-oldsin arts eventshave in 5 2017 diﬀerent careersperforming arts in 2017 due to coronavirus

$3m $400mStart-ups$10m 70%5.6%72% AussiesGen Z $1.88bGen Z $280m 6.4% GDP Wagga sale Wagga sale yardsThe largest Eunonycontributor Bridge Start-ups areAre founded Wiradjuri/Aged over 15Born engaged 1995-2010 Revenuewill generatedBorn 1995-2010 by Incomewill loss to the arts To the economy from yards upgrade turnover to job creationupgrade by 25-44 year-oldsFirst Nationsin arts eventshave in 5 2017 diﬀerent careersperforming artshave in 17 2017 diﬀerent jobsdue to coronavirus the arts in 2016/7

$400m $10m 70%5.6% Gen 9%Z $1.88bGen Z $280mAus students6.4% GDP Arts = jobs Wagga sale yards Eunony Bridge Start-ups areAre founded Wiradjuri/ Born 1995-2010Are born Revenuewill generatedBorn 1995-2010 by Incomewill lossWorst to the international arts To test the economy from More people employed turnover upgrade by 25-44 year-oldsFirst Nations have 5 diﬀerentoverseas careersperforming artshave in 172017 diﬀerent jobsdue to coronavirusresults recorded in the2019 arts in 2016/7 than mining or IT

12.3 m domestic $10m 5.6% Gen 9%Z Gen 24.3%Z $280mAus students6.4%NSW GDP Arts = jobs tourists attended a Eunony Bridge Are Wiradjuri/ Born 1995-2010Are born will Born 1995-2010Aged underIncomewill 18; loss Worstto the internationalarts To test the economyBiggest from drop in reading,More people employed local art gallery, upgrade First Nations have 5 diﬀerentoverseas careers have 17 diﬀerentmedian jobsdue age to is coronavirus 35results recorded in the2019 arts in 2016/7science & maths in than2019 mining or IT concert or festival

12.3 m domestic OnlyCase 5.5 m domesticstudy 3: 5.6% 9% Gen Z24.3% Aus students20.7%6.4%NSW GDP Arts =80% jobs tourists attended a tourists attended an Are Wiradjuri/ Are born Born 1995-2010Aged underwill 18; Worst internationalAged 60To test the economyBiggest from drop in reading,More peopleOlder employed Australianslocal feel art gallery, organised sporting First Nations overseas have 17 diﬀerentmedian jobs age is 35results recordedor over inthe 2019 arts in 2016/7science & maths in than2019 miningyounger or IT than theyconcert are or festival eventKNITTING CIRCLE

12.3 m domestic Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic 9% 24.3% GuidingAus students20.7% principlesNSWRankedArts # = 1480% jobs tourists attended a tourists attended an touristsToo visited little a space Spaces Are born Aged under 18; Worst internationalAged 60 test Biggest dropIn in NSW reading,More for peopleincidentsOlder employed Australianslocal feel art gallery, The City’s guiding principles underscore a organised sporting localThe monument knitting circle or generally meets bi-monthly at The library should be a destination place for overseas median age is 35results recordedor over in 2019 science & mathsof domestic in than2019 mining violenceyounger or IT than theyconcert are or festival event 400k a casino community that is thriving, innovative, connected the City Library. Around 15 people in all; sometimes everyone, including visitors.“Where do we take and inclusive. more, sometimes less. In January 2020, in the wake people who visit Wagga Wagga?” one knitter of the bushfires, the knitters met weekly. explains. “It is not like Dubbo or Bendigo, where Libraries canRanked and do offer# shared spaces in 12.3which m domestic Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic 24.3% 20.7% social,NSW economic, generational 1480% and geographictourists attended a tourists attended an tourists visited a When news got out about knitting Pouches for there are more attractions.” Aged under 18; Aged 60 Biggest dropIn in NSW reading, for incidentsOlder Australianslocal feel art gallery, organised sporting local monument or boundaries are diffused. Joeys, a lot more people came along. The library is free, welcoming, safe, friendly and median age is 35 or over science & mathsof domestic in 2019 violenceyounger than theyconcert are or festival event 400k a casino Wagga Wagga City Library’s role as a ‘welcome Each week around 30 knitters turned up instead of provides important citizen services. It needs more mat for the community’ can be further the 20 or so every second month. meeting spaces. If fact, the whole city needs more enhanced by: Only 5.5 m domestic Only 5.6 m domestic small group community spaces. Ranked # Morning tea, chair set-up, and gentle reminders 20.7% • 80%14Extending the footprint of the City Library tourists attended an tourists visited a Aged 60 In NSW for incidentsOlder Australians feel organised sporting local monument or about new books and e-resources are provided by People or over of domestic violence• youngerDeveloping than theya hub are and spoke model to meetevent 400k a casino library staff. present and future needs It’s clear that the library staff like having us here, It’s busy and noisy, there is too little space, but the say the knitters. But they sometimes feel guilty. • Resourcing a multi-disciplined library team to Only 5.6 m domestic knitters love it. Ranked # 14 deliver an expanded library service will support “We are here every week, we see what’s going on. tourists visited a Staff numbers are lean, they are always rushed off In NSW for incidents city growth, cultural vitality and liveability.local monument or Why do they knit? of domestic violence 400k a casino their feet,” says one woman. “Sometimes we feel “I can’t remember doing anything else,” one knitter that we are tying up valuable staff time with our explains. “It is worthwhile, useful, we donate our work questions and morning teas,” says another. to people who need it,” says another. ‘Everything we do is wrapped in love,” someone else chimes in. Programs While they knit they also chat. On the surface this The knitters are all tech-savvy. They download might seem like everyday pleasantries, but it is a lot books and magazines, stream movies, attend digital more than that. They share knowledge; tips, patterns, classes, and are comfortable using smart phones skills, sources of fibre. And they look out for each and tablets. other. If someone hasn’t come this time: is she okay? In spite of how much they value the library, they do should we go and visit? does she need anything? have complaints. It is mostly older women, but not always. Younger City of Wagga Wagga Community Strategic Plan 2040 Their top five suggestions for improvement: women are really interested, and even some men. • More flexible meeting and gathering spaces Four Guiding Principles: Like many community minded people, the knitters • Cafe have their fingers in a lot of pies. Thriving, Innovative, • More tech savvy classes for seniors, including Connected, Inclusive They are pretty certain they can speak for a lot of refresher courses people in the community. Strategic Directions • More variety in DVDs; better stock rotation; • Community Leadership and Collaboration When it comes to expanding the library and the eliminate fines and $1 reservation fee • Safety and Health services it provides, they are unanimous. • Better parking options. • Growing Economy • Our Identity and Sense of Place • Our Environment The City Library supports all of the above, “It is easy to feel invisible when you get older. Being here makes us visible. especially Place and Identity. People can see us, and we can see them.” Wagga Wagga Knitter

36 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 37 WHAT PEOPLE SAY... SUMMARY

“I want to see a lot more activity and “Libraries are such a great indicator of the Wagga Wagga City Library is held in high regard by the communities it focus on communities and people working value people place on community, one of serves. It supports complex needs across different demographics. together, experiencing the benefits of the true social institutions. Free, anyone coming together in places like our libraries. can use it, no barriers to participation. There is a common view that it can play an Capabilities Not just books, we’ll see all kinds of Finding ways to continue this is important. even greater role in supporting regional city resources being shared through libraries.” Trick is how everyone in community can growth and social cohesion by: As the City Library grows in scale and service offerings it will also need adequate staff numbers Councillor access it. How can everyone become aware • extending the spatial footprint of the City Library and understands of the value and benefits and capabilities. “This should be the welcome mat for the • offering a mix of flexible meeting and study spaces of the library, so that it is highly valued, Capabilities needed: city, at the forefront, because it is such a • continuing to provide excellent programs and well attended library.” learning opportunities • extend learning programs positive and happy place.” Creative practitioner City planner • supporting local histories, stories and cultural • local history and digitisation “The next generation of mobile libraries knowledge • outreach and partnerships “There is a critical need for community will be more open, fair, technology • developing a hub and spoke service model • digital skills and platforms. meeting spaces. High demand now and enabled; fold out walls and pop out decks, that can better serve residents outside the CBD will get higher in the future.” The following Section 4: Future presents a phased a very different experience, mobile food and enhance cultural life in growing suburbs Councillor approach to change over a ten year horizon. vendor, why not? Every village will have a and villages. “The principles are important to me. mobile library and food truck visit, both of This can be achieved by: Inclusiveness, for example, how are which they don’t have now.” library services and spaces inclusive for Councillor Hub and spoke all ages, abilities and our most vulnerable “You can borrow a lawnmower, other City Library: the concurrent Spatial Audit communities who don’t have the resources things too, break down the perception and Design work completed as part of this to literature, learning and programming. barrier about what a library is. If people review, presents opportunities to expand the We have great buy-in from the general haven’t been to the library recently City Library footprint, improve wayfinding, and community and I think the challenge is how they don’t know how much things have introduce flexibility in how people use and enjoy library spaces. we extend the library service to our most changed. It’s a great facility, but could vulnerable communities. Being a free public be more welcoming, less formal and Branch library/kiosk: as suburbs grow and service that we are committed to, means bureaucratic. Make it softer, might engage develop, the City can work with developers to build that we have to provide access to all.” more people.” necessary social and cultural infrastructure. These Council stakeholder Education stakeholder co-design opportunities are often supported by Voluntary Planning Agreements. A 24/7 library “What makes a great place? Don’t need a “The City Library is the number one priority kiosk could be realised in this way. car. Can walk places, read a book, go to for city life, it’s that important.” Agile library: an Agile Library service will support the library and study, go to city pier and City planner watch something. Look at great cities in the City Library to reach more people, in more the world -open space and a city square. I’m not putting reducing homelessness, places, more often. The Agile Library will provide: click and collect delivery; programs; curated Libraries, art and culture are central to drug use and crime on the libraries collections; emerging technologies; library pop- shoulders, by any stretch, but what could this, the foundations, and we are really up services at at community centres, village halls, lucky here. We’ve got the bones of a really we achieve if we really expanded our festivals, events, schools and aged care facilities. good regional city.” library services? City planner Councillor

38 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 39 Summary: Dynamic regional cities need libraries, art and culture SECTION 4:

8m 94% 110m+ FUTURE International tourists Arts related services Visits to public $4.30 visited Aust in 2017 aﬀected by Covid-19 libraries in 2018/9 Return for every dollar In this section: restrictions vs 53% spent on Public industry average libraries The Library Review is positioned as a companion piece to the City’s Cultural Plan 2020 - 2030. If culture is the ‘glue’ that can support communities through change; cultural infrastructure will be imperative. A number of recommendations are presented in relation to: 3.5m International tourists – library spaces engaged with the arts 72% Aussies 51m Aged over 15 engaged Visits to public library – capabilities in arts events in 2017 websites in 2018/9 273,000+ 9 million registered Library programs – services members, representing attracted over 36% of the total 7.4 million people Based on projected population growth over 2020- 2038 a phased approach Australian population is encouraged. The report ends with an optimistic vision of Wagga Wagga City Library in 2038.

12.6m 34m $1.32 b international & Physical visits and to Invested in public domestic tourists in NSW public libraries libraries in 2018-19 NSW 2016 in 2018/19

158m+ Public library collections available 12.1m for public use 87% Vrtual visits to People in NSW believe NSW public libraries culture is important in 2018/19 to the local area 12.3m Domestic tourists attended a local art gallery, concert or culteral festival. Only 5.5 m attended an organised sporting $13b event, 5.6 m visited Spent on cultural & Arts = jobs Priority a local monument or heritage visits to NSW More people employed For First Nations 400k a casino in 2018 in 2017 than mining or IT arts & culture

See bibliography references: 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 16, 25, 32

40 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 41 FUTURE GIYIRA (FUTURE)

Libraries support economic growth, learning, social inclusion and Creative recovery Contingency = creativity cultural complexity. They are essential cultural infrastructure. The library service is one of Council’s most trusted The following recommendations are grouped community interfaces. It reaches more people than into three stages: Cultural vision any other cultural service. It provides life saving • now 2020-2022 The Wagga Wagga City Council Cultural Plan 2020- The City Library features prominently in the programs, resources, support and spaces. • intermediate 2022-2025 2030 presents an articulate case for the role of Cultural Plan. A major objective is to update the The City Library is ready to play a leading role in • longer term 2025-2038 cultural facilities and creative industries to the City’s 20-year-old City Library building, find new ways to creative recovery, growth, learning and community growth prospects, vibrancy, liveability, and capacity extend services into the community, and ensure well-being. Without immediate investment in spaces, people to nurture creative solutions. A striking 95 per cent and outreach services the longer term prospects of adequate staff capabilities can match current and The transitions already happening in Wagga Wagga, of people consulted for the plan believe that the fulfilling the multifaceted and dynamic role other future demand. heightened by post pandemic recovery needs, creative industries, and the work they do to foster regional cities have crafted for their library services If these three things were addressed in a consistent present a fertile field for experimentation. innovation, communication and new technologies, becomes problematic, if not impossible. and imaginative way – building space flexibility, will be vital to the City’s future. Current trends may accelerate. Like the need for community outreach and staff capabilities – the These recommended actions will establish the communal working spaces to balance working from preconditions for success. library can build on its strengths and offer essential home; collective learning opportunities to balance cultural services to more people in more places. distance/online learning; thinking sustainably about Moreover, they are interdependent. Expanding resources by having shared library spaces and staff numbers and capabilities is paramount. In resources; becoming self sufficient, making and this instance, contingency equals creativity. It will sharing things. be skilled people who can activate new spaces; expand the library’s suite of valued learning and City of Wagga Wagga Cultural Plan 2020 - 2030 The City Library can reinforce its role as an engine cultural programs; and extend library services into of creativity; supporting creative practitioners, the the community in new ways. Spatial flexibility in The City Library features prominently in Wagga Wagga’s creative industries generally, and the cultural life of the CBD campus, combined with new kiosks, hubs inspiring Cultural Plan. It has an important part to play in the city. and Agile Library vehicles will increase usage and many of the Plan’s objectives: Disadvantaged communities will continue to benefit membership, support enterprise and the creative • Improving cultural infrastructure • Improving public access to from the literacy, employment skills and technology industries, and encourage active citizenship at a • Incorporating Wiradjuri art, Council and cultural facilities support the City Library provides. time of transitional change. language and culture into in the Civic Precinct These recommendations are modest. They are significant new infrastructure • Supporting the Disability built on a scaled approach over the 2020- 2038 projects Action Plan with arts and period. They will support the City to catch up with • Facilitating easier access and cultural activities equivalent regional city library services elsewhere, more affordable use of Council • Increasing early childhood and experiment with new, low-cost initiatives that facilities and event spaces creative learning programs. could lead the way for others to follow. • Supporting a vibrant city centre. • Extending opening hours of • Delivering cultural the library and other cultural programming and outreach facilities services across the Local • Publishing cultural collections Government Area online • Neighbourhood activation • Strengthening formal and events partnerships between cultural • Supporting creative residences facilities and education and exchanges providers • Supporting the development • Supporting opportunities for and presentation of original the creative industries. local creative work

42 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 43 SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

1: Capabilities 2020-2038 2: Introduce Agile Outreach 3: Expand library services. The City Library will need to expand Library Consider a library capabilities in a number of areas. Failure For example: Wollondilly’s mobile library kiosk/pod to do so will compromise the Library’s service is a popular lifeline to towns and What is a library kiosk? ability to support important City plans: villages across the Shire. Cultural Plan 2020 - 2030; Community The Kiralee Library Pod was launched by Strategic Plan 2040; Reconciliation Ipswitch Libraries to meet the needs of a Action Plan 2019 - 2021; Disability growing community. It was an Australian Inclusion Action Plan 2017 - 2021. first when it opened outside the Kiralee Shopping Centre in October 2019. 2020 - 2022 2022 - 2025 2025 - 2038 The Library Pod offers: Diverse Local studies, Creative • 24/7 access cultures, history and communities • curated collection, restocked daily community digitisation broker - languages, business, • self service vending machine access via Language Café creative mobile phone or library card industries, • large touch screen for joining library, social downloading e-books, magazines, audio enterprises • comfortable benches for sitting, if Partnerships, 21st century Further needed outreach, literacies: workforce community information, planning based well being reading, digital, on population visual & civic growth

Digital Librarian engagement, generalist training and positions x 2 online delivery 4: Riverina Regional Library and Wagga Wagga City Council Review Complete review with Riverina Regional Library

5: Implement recommendations from Spatial Audit and Design Plan, subject to funding

44 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 45 RECOMMENDATIONS

Now 2020-2022 Spaces Service City Library Stretch • Implement spatial planning audit • Build on existing partnership to Phase 1 recommendations to create more expand virtual programs and events; learning and meeting spaces across expand digital training; increase both levels of the library. community usage of new accessible • Proactively seek funding and spaces partnership opportunities • Introduce Sunday opening hours. • Review of RRL Deed of Agreement • Investigate Agile Library concept and resourcing requirements to deliver outreach services across the LGA. Including curated collections, digital training and lifelong learning programs.

Intermediate Spaces Service 2022-2025 City Library Stretch • Implement spatial planning • Implement the Agile Library Phase 2 recommendations to Council owned outreach service to suburbs and spaces e.g. Glenfield Community villages across the Wagga Wagga Centre; Ngurra Youth Hub LGA • Investigate 24/7 library kiosk /pod • Proactively seek funding and partnership opportunities

Longer term Spaces Service 2025-2038 City Library Stretch • Assess the City’s need for library • Im plement a Library of Things based Phase 3 services in line with population on community consultation and growth. Consider extending outreach identification of suitable funding, services. Undertake strategic needs locations and partners across the analysis for any future branch library. city. • Investigate and implement spatial • Expand lifelong learning programs planning recommendations. including onsite, outreach and virtual delivery options.

46 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 47 2038: HOTBED OF IDEAS WINHANGANGIDYAL-GUWAL-GALANG (LOTS OF DIFFERENT KNOWLEDGES) 24/7 access Trusted places There will be 24/7 access to a library kiosk with a The library will be a destination for locals and In the future, no matter what you need by way of learning, spaces, tools curated collection, wifi, pre-ordered items ready visitors alike. and cultural stimulation you will be able to find it in the library. for pickup, and scheduled programs and events. Information, new skills, local stories and For those who can’t make it to a kiosk or Agile opportunities to participate in decision-making The City Library offers the latest in digital Accessible and welcoming Library stop, a library drone, motorbike or bicycle about the future: people will say that Wagga technologies and platforms for experimental, will deliver book packages to residential homes, Wagga City Library is an ideal place to explore fabrication, training and production purposes. The library will be the most accessible place across aged care facilities and farms. ideas in a safe place with a trusted mediator. The latest 3D printers, robotics, virtual and the city. Intelligent design will improve mobility The digitisation of newspapers, records and augmented reality, gaming rooms, interactive access and social inclusion. The differently abled, artefacts combined with the active collection screens, interactive whiteboards and hologram the neuro-diverse, people with dementia, the of oral histories and local stories will open up technologies. mobility challenged can find a supportive place in which to rest, learn and socialise. the City’s diverse history to new audiences and promote a strong sense of place. Facilities on hand They will be as welcome as the droves of students, Opportunities to partner with Wiradjuri and First The library will offer a suite of creative and artistic parents, kids, writers, historians, craftspeople, Nations Elders, multicultural communities, the production facilities – audio and video recording visual artists, musicians, filmmakers, performers Museum of the Riverina, Wagga Wagga Art Gallery studios, multimedia soft/hardware, laser cutters, and small businesses using the library every day and other community and cultural institutions will embroidery machines, rapid printing presses, to connect, learn and share. result in shared digital resources and exhibitions craft and art making studios, musical instruments, Every suburb and village will be supported by the that celebrate the rich cultural history of the City drafting tables. Agile Library service. It will offer a versatile and and region. It will have quiet study nooks, large and small diverse range of lifelong learning opportunities. meeting rooms, collaborative and co-working Storytime, Baby Bounce, digital training, language spaces, kitchens, magical children’s zone and classes, information sessions, mini film festivals, community garden. A place to learn Wiradjuri and author talks – delivered at Community and community languages, and practical lifelong Centres, village halls and public education sites learning skills. across the City.

48 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 49 Around the clock… 2038: A DAY IN THE LIFE AT WAGGA WAGGA CITY LIBRARY

Agile Library fleet Drone and bike Roving librarian Language Café: Promotion launch Community groups schedule today: deliveries: focus today: Conversational English for 100,000 new using library Storytime at Ngurra Wagga Wagga Base NDIS support; at City Library and digital items on network today: Hub, Ashmont; Hospital; Glenfield; BorrowBox: Job seeking; Wiradjuri contemporary Digi-tale production Aged care centres; Wiradjuri at Tolland Celebrate target of art ensemble; classes at Tolland, Online resources for Community Hub. 5000 new digitised Knitting Circle; Uranquinty library social enterprises. Forest Hill, Estella; vending machine; local history artefacts, Local History Lives: Pre-ordered book/ records and oral augmented reality Selection of suburban histories. design collective; equipment delivery homes. Ladysmith Family History and Humula. Association; Ask a Librarian: Behind the Scenes: Riverina Writers’ Group. Face-to-face at City Library run Library & Riverside pop- Finalise Science & Creative classes community up library, pre-booked Digital Art Festival today: Evening Radical program and social sessions today: sessions 12-5.00 pm; Digital photography; Ideas Talk: media promotional Stuff for kids: Virtual Reality for teens; Online inquiries now campaign; Music and video Sustainable Wagga? averaging 30 minutes production; Storytime/Baby Bounce: Can Aboriginal All Things Digital; per inquiry. Finalise implementation City Library x 2; plan for shared Multi-media software; knowledge save the New Civics; Produce two virtual world? discovery platforms Navigating the Advanced 3D printing sessions for download. across all cultural skills. Panel discussion. Information Maze; services; Literature and Purchase new multi- Mindfulness. object vending machines; Evening book Plan 2031 collection

enhancement focal launch: areas. Fairy Tales for Curious Minds, local author & illustrator

50 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 51 APPENDICES

Bibliography

1 Aabø, S. & Audunson, R. “Use of library space and the library as place”, Library and Information Science 23 State Library of NSW Public Library News, Mobile and Outreach, Winter 2018, Volume 24 No 1 (2012) Research 34, pp 138-149, Elsevier (2018) 2 ANA (2019 The Big Picture: Public Expenditure on Artistic, Cultural and Creative Activity in 24 State Library of NSW Public Library Statistics 2018/9: https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/ Australia, A New Approach / Insight research series / Report One / 2019 (2020) advice-and-best-practice/public-library-statistics 3 ANA (2019) Transformative: Impacts of Culture and Creativity, A New Approach / Insight 25 State Library of Victoria Creative Communities: the cultural benefits of Victoria’s public libraries, Project Sisu research series / Report Two / 2019 (2014) for SLV/Public Libraries Victoria 4 Australia Council for the Connecting Australians: Results of the National Arts Participation Survey, Sydney, 26 State Library of Victoria Libraries Work! The socioeconomic values of public libraries to Victorians, SGS Arts (2017) June 2017 (2018) Economics and Planning 5 Australia Council for the Domestic Arts Tourism: Connecting the Country, Australia Council for the Arts 27 Vinson, T. and Dropping Off The Edge 2015: Persistent communal disadvantage in Australia, Jesuit Arts (2020) Rawsthorne, M. (2015) Social Services, Melbourne 2015 6 ARUP (2015) Future Libraries, Arup University, London 28 Wagga Wagga City Wagga View – Community Strategic Plan 2040 (2017) Council (2017) 7 Davern, M., Both, A., ‘The average regional city resident lacks good access to two-thirds of community Higgs, C. & Gunn, L. services, and liveability suffers’, The Conversation, March 17, 2020: https:// 29 Wagga Wagga City Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2017-2021 (2020) theconversation.com/the-average-regional-city-resident-lacks-good-access-to-two- Council (2017) thirds-of-community-services-and-liveability-suffers-131910 30 Wagga Wagga City Reconciliation Action Plan 2021 (2019) 8 Cadzow. J. (2019) ‘One for the books: the unlikely renaissance of libraries in the digital age’. Good Council (2019) Weekend, Sydney Morning Herald, 28/9/2019 31 Wagga Wagga City Wagga Wagga health and Knowledge Precinct: Masterplans 1 & 2: https://wagga.nsw. 9 Create NSW (2019) Cultural Infrastructure Plan 2025+, NSW Government Council (2019) gov.au/city-of-wagga-wagga/business/health-and-knowledge-precinct-masterplan

10 Crowe, D. (2020) ‘It's time to loosen the blindfolds: transparency needed in virus figures’,Sydney 32 Wagga Wagga City Cultural Plan 2020 - 2030 Morning Herald, March 26, 2020. Council (2020) 11 Ellicott, J. (2018) ‘Two NSW regional cities nominated as the next big thing(s)’, The Land, 23 March, 33 Yunkaporta, T. (2019) Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World, Text Publishing, Melbourne 2018 2019 12 Foundation for Young Future Skills Framework 2030 Factsheet Australians (FYA), 2019

13 Gunn, L. (2020) ‘Australia’s most liveable regional cities revealed’, RMIT, Centre for Urban Research: https://cur.org.au/media/ 14 Klinenberg, E. (2018) To Restore Civil Society, Start with the Library’, New York Times, September 2018

15 Landis-Hanley, J. (2020) ‘Choice recognition’, The Saturday Paper, March 7-13, 2020

16 Law, B. (2020) ‘In times of crisis, we turn to the arts. Now the arts is in crisis’, The Guardian, 27 March, 2020 17 Maunder, S. (2019) First library in Victoria to open 24 hours a day, seven days a week has town buzzing, ABC Gippsland: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-12-27/foster-library-first-in- victoria-to-open-24-hours-a-day/11777696 18 National & State Australian Public Libraries Statistical Report 2018-2019, Compiled by State Library of Libraries Australasia Queensland, July 2020 (2020) 19 Profile ID (2020) City of Wagga Wagga Community Profile: https://profile.id.com.au/wagga-wagga

20 Richter, J. (2019) ‘Ground-breaking library pod opens in shopping centre’, Ipswich First, October 2019: https://www.ipswichfirst.com.au/ground-breaking-library-pod-opens-in-shopping- centre/ 21 Scanlon Foundation Mapping Social Cohesion: The Scanlon Foundation Surveys 2019, Andrew Markus, (2019) Monash University 22 State Library of NSW People, Places: A guide for public library buildings in NSW (Third Edition) (2012)

52 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 53 Glossary of terms

AR Augmented Reality ATSI Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse

Collection Library collection development is the process of meeting the information needs of the people (a service development population) in a timely and economical manner using information resources locally held, as well as from other organisations. Creative The creative industries are innovation led, knowledge intensive and potentially exportable businesses that industries cover a range of creative practices across all art forms. Digital The ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate literacy information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills. Digitisation The conversion of text, pictures, or sound into a digital form that can be accessed by an electronic device, computer, tablet etc. DIAP Disability Inclusion Action Plans

FTE Full-time equivalent

LIS Library Information System; sometimes called Library Management System (LMS)

Lifelong Providing formal and informal learning opportunities throughout people's lives in order to foster the learning knowledge and skills needed for work, pleasure and community participation. LoT Library of Things: non traditional library collections

Masterplan A detailed vision and plan that helps guide decision- making, design, and subordinate plans.

Partner An individual, group, organisation or business with whom Wagga Wagga City Council can work to deliver a learning/cultural event or program that brings benefit to both parties. Pop-up New generation mobile or ephemeral libraries, which can include refurbished shipping containers, library modified caravans, architect-designed pods, motorcycles and bicycles, or the temporary occupation outreach of vacant shopfronts. RFID Radio Frequency Identification

RRL Riverina Regional Library

SEIFA Socio-Economic Indices For Areas: developed by the ABS to rank suburbs according to levels of advantage or disadvantage SLNSW State Library New South Wales

SLV State Library Victoria

STEAM Science Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics

STEM Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics

VPA Voluntary Planning Agreement is an agreement entered into by a planning authority and a developer. Under a VPA a developer agrees to provide or fund: public amenities and public services; affordable housing; and transport or other infrastructure. VR Virtual reality

Wiradjuri The largest Aboriginal group in New South Wales. The dominant Aboriginal language in central western NSW, including the Riverina region. Wiradjuri terms used in this document can be found here: http://www.wiradjuri. dalang.com.au/plugin_wiki/wordlist WWCC Wagga Wagga City Council

WWCL Wagga Wagga City Library

54 Wagga Wagga City Library Review 55 CONTACT US

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