With the recent return to normal opening hours for the Mildura, Merbein and Red Cliffs libraries, it's more important than ever for library members to return overdue items.
Many residents are taking advantage of the increased opening hours introduced late last year, however are either unable to find the items they're looking for, or are forced to wait long periods due to thousands of overdue items.
The combination of normal opening hours and 24-hour return chutes at Mildura, Merbein and Red Cliffs libraries mean library members can return items at any time that suits them.
Mildura Mayor Jason Modica encouraged library members with overdue items to return them as soon as possible.
"The past 12 months have been a disruptive time for many of us and our libraries have played an important role in keeping people connected, entertained and engaged through the numerous items and programs on offer," Cr Modica said.
"To ensure our libraries can continue doing this, it's important library members return any overdue items so that other people in our community can enjoy these same benefits."
While Council's libraries do not charge overdue fees, members may be billed for the replacement of library items if they are not returned.
All returned items continue to undergo quarantine and cleaning before being returned to circulation.
Council's libraries are open during the following hours:
Mildura Library
Monday 1pm to 5pm
Tuesday to Friday 10am to 7pm
Saturday 10am to 2pm
Sunday 1pm to 5pm
Merbein Library
Tuesday to Friday 10am to 5.30pm
Saturday 10am to 1pm
Red Cliffs Library
Tuesday to Thursday 10am to 5pm
Friday 10am to 6pm
Saturday 10am to 1pm
Ouyen Library
Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm
Murrayville Library
Tuesday 1pm to 5pm
Thursday 9am to 1pm
One Hub Irymple
Thursdays 9am to 12noon
Coinciding with the resumption of normal opening hours, Council's library service has a host of activities and services available including:
- library members can drop in to a library to collect a children's holiday 'take and make' activity bag. Bags are aimed at primary school-aged children
- there is an ongoing book sale at Mildura, Red Cliffs and Merbein libraries for those looking for pre-loved library books
- customers can access half-hour computer bookings and printing
- postal delivery service is still available, including for members in remote towns serviced by the Mobile Outreach Van, which is not available at this time
- photocopying, printing and fax services.
Residents are asked to make cashless transactions where possible.
While normal library opening hours have resumed, COVID-19 safety measures are still in place, meaning there is limited seating to ensure safe social distancing, and no access to meeting rooms, the Mobile Outreach Van or access to newspapers and programs. These services will resume as soon as safely possible.
