KILMORE, Wallan and Seymour libraries could be set for extended operating hours from next year as the Mitchell Shire Council (MSC) considers how to best support the region’s growing community.
The MSC is currently running a review of the shire’s libraries, with weeknight hours and Saturday opening times set to be trialled next year.
There are two options on offer to be considered.
The first, Option A, would introduce evening access until 8pm at the Kilmore and Wallan libraries on Wednesdays, as well as Saturday opening hours between 9.30am and 1pm for the Kilmore, Wallan and Seymour libraries.
Option B would include extended hours at the Seymour library on Tuesday night until 8pm alongside the changes in Option A.
No changes are being tabled for the Beveridge or Broadford libraries, which will continue to operate as they do currently.
The options are based on information that Council has collected from the community, along with library usage data, borrowing patterns, staffing requirements and other operational considerations.
Council will make the final decision on any changes to library opening hours.
Community consultation closes on October 30, with the approved model expected to be selected in December and the 12-month trial beginning in February 2027.
