Pick My Project – Castlemaine Library

Voting has begun for Pick My Project - a state-wide grant funding process to procure funds for local community projects – and Castlemaine Library is in the running!

The Library’s project idea is a simple one; it aims to fix the floor of the beautiful, historic building, install new carpet, and provide new, movable shelving and wayfinding signage for the entire library.

Castlemaine Library Manager, Jess Saunders, says that the movable shelving would be of huge benefit to the way the spaces are used, enhancing flexibility and usability.

“We run so many programs and events throughout the year, and are often quite limited by the space we currently have to use. Movable shelves would not only freshen the way we can house and display our fantastic collection, but it would mean that we could host an even broader range of events for all of our community users, from the pre-school story time groups to the seniors chess and knitting groups, and everyone in between”.

The new flooring is also essential to maintaining and looking after our well-used, historic building. “We welcome over 12,000 people into the library every month, and our floor is being held up by the hand-made nails from the original build in 1857 – over 160 years ago. It’s simply due for an upgrade, for safety and the comfort of our patrons and our staff.”

Projects are funded depending on the number of votes they each get. The community is encouraged to vote for Castlemaine Library by going to pickmyproject.vic.gov.au and registering to vote. People are able to vote for up to 3 projects, and the staff at the library are more than happy to help people with the registration and voting process.

For more information see www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au, or drop into the library!