The Tasmanian Government has again been forced to come out and confirm regional library hours will not be cut.
In an open letter to Education Minister Jo Palmer, the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) raised concerns about possible cuts to library hours and requested clarification.
“We are concerned … Libraries Tasmania have provided plans that propose to increase and fund extended opening hours in some libraries by reducing opening hours at 14 libraries across Tasmania, a move that would disadvantage many regional communities,” the letter read.
“Our libraries are clearly under-resourced. Greater investment is needed urgently to meet public demand.”
Palmer said work will be undertaken with the union to ensure library employees “understand their job is secure” under the Liberal government.
“We will not be cutting library hours. We will not be reducing regional library hours,” she said.
“I cannot be any clearer … Regional libraries are the lifeblood of our communities.”
The state government announced last week that they had plans to open some libraries over the weekends to increase accessibility.
