Bookworms and night owls can now access the Forestville Library anytime, any day! The public library has launched a first-ever Sydney trial to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
After carefully weighing the demands for such a community service in the Northern Beaches in the last two years, a decision to open Forestville Library 24/7 was finally made at the end of August 2022.
The trial will go on until November 2022 and library members are enjoined to share their feedback and experience to improve this service. Interested residents may sign up and undergo a 15-minute induction program before they are given their library cards. They may have access to any section in the library by simply scanning the barcode printed on their ID and entering their chosen PIN.
Library staff members will not be on site after normal business hours but CCTV monitors have been installed all over the premises. A distress button is also on the site to alert the security services.
“Our aim is to increase visitation and usage of the Forestville library by re-purposing the space not only to meet current and future community needs, but the growing needs of the 24hr economy,” Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said.
“Libraries are changing – they’re not just books – they’re safe, welcoming public spaces with access to modern digital services. This trial is another step towards our libraries becoming accessible community hubs, reflecting our community’s changing lifestyle.
“Since COVID we know we must adapt and change so this provides a modern, flexible workspace for entrepreneurs, small business owners, emerging artists, and young people when they need it, outside normal business hours. It is a win for everyone.”
Sleeping inside the library, however, is strictly discouraged, and whilst members may bring their drinks, alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Children below 16 years old may also visit during odd hours, provided that they are with an adult member.
In 2012, the City of Sydney planned to open the Customs House Library 24/7 but did not push through. In Central West, NSW, a small town of fewer than 500 residents made its library accessible at all hours.
Council will review the 24/7 library services based on the feedback from the community before planning a permanent rollout in 2023. To learn more about this trial, check the official site.
