Surf Coast Shire Council has worked with the Geelong Regional Library Corporation (GRLC) to extend the opening hours for Torquay Library during the forecast heatwave conditions from Sunday to Tuesday.
The library will be available as a cool place to go for anyone seeking refuge from the heat.
It will open for an extra two hours on Sunday afternoon, and an extra 30 minutes on Monday and Tuesday, with opening hours as follows:
Sunday 2 February – 1.30pm-6pm
Monday 3 February – 10am-6pm
Tuesday 4 February – 10am-6pm
The Bureau of Meteorology issued a Heatwave Warning on Friday afternoon, with Severe heatwave conditions forecast for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
The Department of Health advises that, while extreme heat can affect everyone, those more at risk are people over the age of 65, babies and young children, pregnant women, people with acute or chronic health problems, and people who are socially isolated.
Council's General Manager Community Life Damian Waight urged community members to look after themselves and loved ones during the heatwave.
"For anyone looking for somewhere to go to stay cool, we encourage you to use the Torquay Library during the extended opening hours," he said.
"Thank-you to the GRLC for providing this option for the community."
GRLC CEO Vanessa Schernickau said, "We welcome everyone to Torquay Library as a cool, safe space to escape the heat and we're pleased to extend our hours to support the local community.
"Whether you need a place to rest, read, or connect with others, libraries are here for you."
The Department of Health website has information and resources for anyone looking for advice on keeping themselves and loved ones safe during times of high heat.
