Library Opening Hours Review

Library opening hours review - have your say

We’re looking at how library opening hours can better support our growing communities in Beveridge, Broadford, Kilmore, Seymour and Wallan. Two proposed models have been developed for community feedback.

About the project

The proposed models are based on what we have heard from the community, along with library usage data, borrowing patterns, staffing requirements and operational considerations. They aim to better reflect when people use our libraries and provide more predictable access across the Shire. Both models retain weekday library services at all five locations and return regular Saturday access at Kilmore, Seymour and Wallan. The main difference is how evening access is shared between branches. Any revised hours would be introduced as a 12-month trial from February 2027, subject to consultation findings, further review, staff consultation and approval.

Preferred model

Option A: demand based access

Option B: Geographically balanced evening access

How to provide feedback

Which proposed library opening-hours model would best meet the needs of your community?

Review the proposed library hours
Complete the survey to indicate your preference
Talk with a library staff member
Come and see us at a pop up
Contact us if you need support to take part

What feedback can influence:

Community preference between the two proposed models, the value of evening access, the value of regular Saturday access, and any unintended impacts or issues we should consider when refining the final trial model.

What cannot change:

Community feedback will be considered alongside operational requirements, with Council making the final decision on any changes to library opening hours.

More information

If you have questions or need help to take part, contact Mitchell Shire Libraries through our standard customer contact channels. Translation, accessibility and National Relay Service support can be arranged where required.

What happens next

Once consultation closes, we will review what we heard and use it to refine the proposed trial opening-hours model. We will share a consultation summary and next steps on Engaging Mitchell after the review.

Feedback closes

30 October 2026