Community book exchange headed for Killarney?

Jonathan O’Neill oneill.jonathan1@outlook.com

Killarney is one step closer to a dedicated library service, with Southern Downs Regional Council voting on what the library service will look like.

The town has long called for its own dedicated library service similar to the one on offer at Allora.

Survey results released by Council in March, reveal that a large percentage of respondents favoured a shopfront library in the town sooner rather than later.

However Manager of Community and Cultural Services at Southern Downs Regional Council, Michael Bell told Councillors in March that building a new library in Killarney would be a two to fouryear project.

“Constructing a building on a greenfield site, we’re talking anywhere from half a million to a million dollars just for construction, that’s not including operation,” Mr Bell said.

“Most respondents wanted a solution sooner rather than later, this is not an immediate solution”.

Councillors voted on recommendations to establish a community book exchange in the interim at the Killarney Co-Op to provide a browsing collection of library items as soon as possible.

The CEO of the Killarney Co-Op told Council that the Board has agreed to host a community book exchange, with a suitable space available.

The implementation of the Regional Access Library Program as an enhanced delivery service to the Killarney regional community was also discussed.

This may include fortnightly drop off/ pick up of library items at a central, secure space, a fortnightly homerun to members, monthly pop-up services, and/or a quarterly outreach program.

In accordance with the Council vote on February 22, consideration and planning for establishing a Killarney Library shopfront will be undertaken.

The report issued to Council noted that damage to their reputation is at risk if clear ongoing strategic plans are not communicated clearly with the community.

The Killarney community has indicated concerns that establishing a book exchange will negate future opportunities for a branch library.

More on this story in this week's Daily Journal (26th May).