Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke MP today announced $53,650 for Narrandera Library to bring its new youth space to life through round two of the NSW Government’s $100 million Regional Cultural Fund.
Ms Cooke said the announcement was the second round of funding within a year for this project, demonstrating the government’s true commitment to Narrandera’s wonderful library.
In April this year, $200,000 was announced for Narrandera under the Public Library Infrastructure grant program, to construct areas for collaborative study and socialising, as well as a multifunctional area for group visits with an accessible toilet and entrance.
The new grant of $53,650 through Round Two of the Regional Cultural Fund will supply the technology and furnishings required to bring the space to life.
“This project really combines two of my real passions: our local libraries, and improving the experiences and outcomes of youth across the Cootamundra electorate,” Ms Cooke said.
“For twenty years the young adult fiction area of the library has been just a few bays of books and a couch, but this Government’s investment in this community will completely change the narrative.
“I can’t wait to check out the innovative ways this new space will engage our young people in Narrandera.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said two projects across the Cootamundra electorate will receive a share of the $47 million round two funding, including up to $5 million specifically for regional public library infrastructure projects.
“Art, screen, culture, music and performance are at the heart and soul of regional NSW and this funding will provide even more opportunities for locals to enjoy entertaining and educational experiences,” Mr Barilaro said.
“Importantly it will also provide artists with new opportunities to showcase innovative and quality works and allow visitors to experience a diverse range of arts and activities while generating social, economic and tourism benefits across the state.
“By improving and supporting local art galleries, libraries and artist-led public art we are making towns and cities across regional NSW vibrant places to live, study, work and play.”
Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said the Regional Cultural Fund would provide inspiration, education and development opportunities for young regional artists.
“It has been my pleasure to see first-hand how the first round of recipients have benefitted and I have no doubt that these new projects will continue to enrich the lives of artists, cultural workers and communities across the State,” Mr Harwin said.
“I congratulate Narrandera on this great news which means the community will share in the very best of artistic and cultural experiences into the future.”
The Regional Cultural Fund is part of the NSW Government’s $1.6 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to improve economic growth and productivity as well as community amenity with investment in regional communities.
For more information about the Regional Cultural Fund, visit https://www.create.nsw.gov.au/funding-and-support/regional-cultural-fund/regional-cultural-fund-2/
