Libraries in South Australia (SA) have evolved into vital multifaceted community hubs, expanding the roles of librarians to include social work, digital navigation and crisis response. This shift, celebrated for its community impact, has created challenges for staff, leading to stress and burnout due to inadequate training and support for their broadened scope. The report advocates for better funding and workforce strategies, offering recommendations to the state government and local councils.

Key findings

• Libraries are thriving community hubs.
• These hubs are empowering families.
• Libraries help to bridge the digital divide.
• Libraries are safe havens in crises.
• There is a dedicated workforce ready to grow.

Recommendations

• Establish an independent formal review into equitable funding models for libraries.
• Deliver a one-off increase of its contribution to library budgets.
• Introduce a Social Responsibility Levy on institutions exiting regional markets.
• Set up professional development and training programs for library staff.
• Fund libraries to respond to extreme weather events.
• Expand the Social Worker Program.