Like a 'tin of sardines': Library programs at bursting point on Melbourne's fringe

Jasmin, a mother of two in Melbourne's Melton suburb, arrives half an hour early for library baby and toddler sessions to secure a spot. She values the educational and social benefits, including Auslan and Acknowledgement of Country, for her children aged 1 and 3.

“

I go because it's educational, but also for the social aspect.

Melton, identified in 2023 as having the worst library access in Greater Melbourne, is experiencing rapid population growth, with about 70 babies born weekly. The area's population exceeds 230,000, growing at over 5% annually. This growth is straining the two existing public libraries, which serve a population density far below the Melbourne average of one library per 30,000 people.

“

They do sign language and Acknowledgement of Country and all the things you wouldn't normally expose your children to at home.

Jasmin wishes for a larger space and more sessions to accommodate families, describing current sessions as feeling like being "in a tin of sardines." She also expressed safety concerns near the library.

“

My daughter has learned so much Auslan from it, they're really good programs.

Troy Scoble, Melton City Council's director of city life, stated that the council struggles to service the community with limited resources, despite annual funding increases. He noted that state government funding has remained stagnant since 2023, while the population has grown significantly. To bridge the gap, the council is implementing agile solutions like self-service stations and a mobile library van, shifting focus from physical infrastructure to community outreach.

“

A lot more people could fit within the space and you're not all just feeling like you're [in] a tin of sardines.