THE end of a long-running funding initiative is expected to have a “significant” effect on a Riverland library, according to a senior council figure.
The State Government’s libraries funding agreement with the Local Government Association (LGA) is set to expire this month.
Renmark Paringa director of corporate and community services Tim Pfeiffer said funding through the agreement – which has been running for a decade – had been pivotal to the library’s services being delivered.
“The Renmark Paringa Library is not only the bastion of knowledge and learning in our community, it is also a place where social barriers are broken down and genuine connections are built,” Mr Pfeiffer said.
“Renmark Paringa Library attracts over 30,000 visitors per year and is vital in connecting the community, improving digital literacy, supporting children’s education and providing access to online government services.
“Almost 20 per cent of the Renmark Paringa Library budget comes from the vital annual contribution that the State Government provides.
“Any reduction in financial support from the State Government would have a significant impact on the range and quality of services that the Renmark Paringa Library provides.”
A State Government spokesperson said “significant funding” was allocated to libraries each year.
“This year’s budget is still being finalised,” the spokesperson said, “and will be handed down in June.”