How Good Are Libraries

South Australian public libraries play an essential role in our communities. They provide education, community wellbeing, digital inclusion, emergency management and economic development.

The 'How Good Are Libraries' campaign showcases the value of libraries in South Australian communities and highlights the many services and programs on offer.

'Too Good to Lose' library funding campaign

LGA is stepping up its advocacy in the lead-up to the next State Election through the next phase of its campaign – Too Good to Lose.

This phase highlights that every dollar invested in libraries returns nearly $3 in social and economic value. Without increased and indexed funding, library services, opening hours and community programs are at risk.

Campaign assets for councils

We're seeking support from councils to help amplify this message and demonstrate a strong, united local government position.

Specifically, we're asking councils to share the Too Good to Lose campaign on their social media and communication channels. To support councils, LGA has prepared social media assets and copy.

View and download campaign assets (new window)

Positive impact of libraries

South Australian public libraries make a big impact in communities across SA.

More than 1 in 4 South Australians are library users.
487,000+ active SA members.
More than 64,000 programs per year.
11.5 million loans have been accessed from 140+ public libraries.
$253 million worth of benefits in communities across SA.

Your local library is at risk

There are more than 140 public libraries across South Australia and local councils invest $86 million each year into these important community places.

Much more than just a place to borrow books, libraries are essential, safe and trusted community institutions. They offer free access to a huge range of resources and services to more than 796,000 visitors per year.

Under the current state government deal, public libraries are losing $11.5 million over 5 years. This could mean cuts to books and programs, shorter opening hours, and fewer staff on hand to help you in times of need.

LGA South Australia is calling on the state government to urgently increase funding to ensure our libraries can continue to support literacy, digital access and inclusion and community connections.

Get involved

Join us in celebrating and sharing How Good Are Libraries. Everyone's welcome to get involved – learn how below:

Make your voice heard

Contact your local member of parliament (MP) to show just how important public libraries are to you and your community and advocate for increased state funding:

search your address on the map
find your MP
email them using our template.

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Email template for contacting your MP

Subject: Urgent support needed for our public libraries

Body: Dear [Local MP Name],

I’m writing as a concerned constituent in the electorate of [Electorate Name], urging you to advocate for increased state government funding for South Australia’s public libraries.

More than one in four South Australians rely on their local library for connection, learning, safety and support.

Libraries are trusted public spaces that deliver over 64,000 training programs each year and provide more than 2 million digital lifelines through internet and Wi-Fi access. 95 per cent of users say their library is a trusted space.

But libraries are under threat.

Under the current state government funding arrangement, they face a $11.5 million shortfall over five years. This could make it harder for people to access the services and support they need.

While 84 per cent of funding comes from local councils, libraries serve all South Australians. Increased state investment is essential to maintain the services our communities need and deserve.

Libraries also generate $253 million in social and economic value annually, returning nearly $3 for every $1 invested.

I urge you to support increased funding so libraries can continue to serve our state now and in to the future.

Thank you for your time and commitment.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Optional: Your phone number or email]