Update on libraries and information services affected by floods

Canberra, 19 October 2022: Parts of Australia are once again facing the damaging effects of flooding as heavy rains continue to fall over much of the east coast.

As we saw earlier in the year, the impact of these weather events on libraries and library services can be devastating, and we have been reaching out to Members in affected areas to get an update on any damage caused by the flooding and to offer our support.
 
We urge anyone affected to visit Blue Shield Australia (BSA) for vital flood recovery resources and clear recommendations on the most effective way to help both during and following a disaster.
 
ALIA also has a range of disaster management documents to assist libraries with responding quickly and effectively, minimizing loss of stock and equipment, and ensuring the safety and well being of staff.
 
If you’d like to share an update on this page from your area, please email [email protected].
 
To date, ALIA is aware of the following libraries that have been impacted:
 
TAS
 
  • Georgetown, Ulverstone and Scottsdale libraries had some minor rainwater damage and leaks.
  • Latrobe, Roseberry, Strahan, Sheffield, Wynyard and Bicheno were closed mainly due to local weather conditions, road closures and staff inability to travel to locations safely. Orford and Tasman libraries closed due to power outages but have now reopened. Deloraine is closed as a safety precaution.
VIC
 
  • In Victoria, Rochester Library in Campaspe Shire has been flooded and remains closed;. Echuca Library is bracing itself for reportedly off-the-charts flood levels and is currently closed.
  • In the Gannawarra Shire Council, Quambatook and Cohuna libraries are remaining open at this stage, whilst Kerang and Leitchville are currently closed.
  • Shepparton Library and Mooroopna Libraries in the Goulburn Valley have escaped flooding but will remain closed until safe to open.The CEO at Goulburn Valley Libraries will assess each of the libraries for opening on a case by case basis, based on the ability to have staff attend safely and provide safe access for patrons.
  • The Mobile Library is off the road and the opening of the new Avenel Library is postponed to next week.

ALIA will continue to monitor the situation and will reshare all relevant flood support updates on social media and on our website.