Your Library. Your Future.

The draft Indigo Shire Library Strategy 2026-2030 is now on public exhibition, outlining how libraries across Beechworth, Chiltern, Rutherglen and Yackandandah, along with our outreach services, will continue to evolve as welcoming and inclusive spaces for learning, connection, creativity and access to information. We invite you to help shape the future of your library service.

About the Strategy

The Draft Library Strategy 2026-2030 sets the long-term direction for Indigo Shire Libraries. It outlines how our services, programs and spaces will evolve to meet the needs of a growing and changing community.

Indigo Shire Libraries have experienced significant growth and change in recent years, with increasing demand for digital support, community programs, study spaces and inclusive services.

Over the past three years, Council has undertaken ongoing engagement with residents, library members, community groups and young people to understand how library services can best support local needs. This work has directly informed the development of the draft Strategy.

Because of this extensive engagement, the public exhibition phase is not the starting point - it is a confirmation point. It is an opportunity for the community to review the draft Strategy, validate the proposed direction, and identify any gaps or refinements before it is presented to Council for adoption.

The Strategy also responds to broader trends shaping public libraries across Australia, including the growing importance of digital literacy, flexible and multi-use spaces, and the role of libraries as community hubs for connection, creativity and lifelong learning.

What this strategy aims to achieve

We’ve articulated five key objectives we want to achieve through this Strategy:

• Indigo Shire Libraries are an essential service
• Our community is engaged and satisfied
• Our staff are empowered
• Our spaces and collections are accessible for all
• Our libraries are sustainable and future-ready

We will deliver these objectives through six key strategic themes, supported by a clear and focused action plan. These are underpinned by guiding principles that ensure our community and people remain at the heart of everything we do.

Provide your feedback.

Your Library. Your Future.

Throughout April, you will be able to share your feedback by:

• joining us at one of our pop-up events
• visiting your local library
• completing the survey below
• emailing your submissions to info@indigoshire.vic.gov.au

Your feedback will help confirm priorities, identify any gaps, and ensure the final Strategy reflects our community’s goals and aspirations.

Submissions close Thursday 30 April 2026.