ALIA supports the NSW 'Day of Action'

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The Australian Library and Information Association supports the campaign for funding for New South Wales public libraries and the Day of Action planned on 29 November 2007.

"It is critical for Australia's national development that Australians have high quality library services", said Roxanne Missingham, President of the Australian Library and Information Association. "Public libraries support all aspects of Australian life", she said.

"Libraries support education, community activities, children's reading, literacy, research and business. They are an essential part of the services supporting the development of the nation, particularly for rural and remote communities where there is limited access to information and community services."

In New South Wales, the funding for public libraries has declined over the past 25 years. State government funding has decreased from 23.6% of the total operating costs of public libraries in 1980 to 7.8% in 2004-05 with further reductions in years since then. The State budget for 2006-07 included a massive cut of $1,023,000 (4.16%).

The Public Libraries NSW Country (PLC) has highlighted the state of public library funding. PLC is planning a 'Day of Action' on 29 November 2007 including a protest at Parliament House in Sydney.

The Australian Library and Information Association represents library workers employed in Australian libraries and information services. With more than 6000 members, ALIA is committed "to promote the free flow of information and ideas in the interest of all Australians and a thriving culture, economy and democracy".

There are over 1700 public libraries in Australia (including state and national libraries). There are approximately 12 million registered users of these libraries, with approximately 100 million visits to libraries each year. There are more public libraries than McDonalds restaurants.

Visit http://www.plnsw.org.au for more information about the activities, petition and funding issue for New South Wales public libraries.

ENDS

INFORMATION FOR EDITORS:

Australian Library and Information Association: Sue Hutley 0412 764 922

The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) is the professional association for the Australian library and information services sector. It seeks to empower the profession in the development, promotion and delivery of quality library and information services to the nation, through leadership, advocacy and mutual support. ALIA represents the interest of 6,000 members, the profession and Australia's 10 million library users.

http://www.alia.org.au

Issued on behalf of
Australian Library and Information Association
ALIA House, 9-11 Napier Close, Deakin ACT 2604

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