Merri-bek City Council decided on June 23 to reinstate a full-time library social worker position, after pressure from librarians, residents and some councillors.
The 2025–26 budget had only allocated funds for a two-day position, which means securing enough funds for a full-time position was a victory, Socialist Alliance Merri-bek councillor Sue Bolton told Green Left.
Given that Merri-bek Council ran a successful two-year trial of a full-time library social worker, people were angry when, in February, the role was cut.
Merri-bek residents joined a spirited rally outside Coburg Town Hall before the council meeting began, expressing indignation over the potential loss of an essential service and the bean counters’ undervaluing of the vital social function that libraries serve.
Speakers said libraries play a bigger role than simply lending books; they are spaces for people to use the internet and computers.
“Neoliberalism’s cuts to post offices and other public places mean face-to-face service goes by the wayside,” Bolton said. “Libraries allow people to access Centrelink and other government departments, with library staff often helping out.”
“Libraries also provide a respite from commodified access to goods and are often the only place for people to sit without being encouraged to buy something. For people of all ages and needs, libraries are hubs of community, socialising, recreation and study.”
There is also substantial evidence from the United States, Canada and Aotearoa New Zealand to support the effectiveness of library social workers. Melbourne, Port Phillip, Fremantle, Darwin, Bendigo, Salisbury and Adelaide employ social workers in libraries.
The six councillors who voted for the full-time social workers were: Sue Bolton (Socialist Alliance); Nat Abboud (Independent), Liz Irvin (Greens); Adam Pulford (Greens); Jay Iwasaki (Greens) and Ella Svensson (Greens). Four councillors voted against: Helen Politis (Labor); Oscar Yildiz (Independent); Chris Miles (Labor) and Katerine Theodosis (Labor).