Libraries After Dark supports communities with few recreation alternatives to the local pokies venue. The program funds extended evening opening hours in participating libraries, positioning the local library as a community lounge – an alternative to the gambling lounge. It seeks to reduce social isolation, a well-established risk factor for the social and economic harm caused by gambling. This risk is particularly high in communities with high loss pokies venues in their midst.
More information can be found on the Libraries After Dark website!
The state-wide program is managed by the Moreland City Council in association with the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA) and is funded by the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation. The program supports the following libraries to open late once a week and trial innovative inclusive engagement programs:
- Glenroy Library
- Preston Library
- Mill Park Library
- Broadmeadows Library
- Sebastopol Library (Ballarat)
- Dandenong Library
- Springvale Library & Community Hub
- Bairnsdale Library
- Portland Library
- Shepparton Library
- Wyndham Plaza
- Pakenham Library
- Watsonia Library
- Carrum Downs Library
- Hoppers Crossing Library
- Pakenham Library
For further information email the program manager at [email protected]
Media
The Age: The libraries opening late as a pokies alternative June, 2018
Studio 10: Could libraries be the new pubs?