NSW-Vic border: Goulburn Valley Libraries assist 600 residents cross state lines

Regional libraries provided a lifeline to many Victorians needing assistance crossing into NSW when strict border rules were brought in a few months ago. Here’s how they have served the community during the pandemic.

Distant connection: Yarrawonga library is now offering Click and Collect. Picture: Supplied

HUNDREDS of border residents in Victoria have turned to their local libraries to help them get into NSW.

Goulburn Valley Libraries chief executive Kevin Preece said their branches in Yarrawonga and Cobram assisted more than 100 people needing permits on the first day of the border rules brought in in July.

“Some people needed help with accessing the technology to apply for a permit but mostly it was just people using the computer for applications and printing the permits,” Mr Preece said.

“Overall we helped about 500 people at Yarrawonga and Cobram.”

Mr Preece said he saw the majority of people applying for permits based on work and education or for medical appointments.

During that period they also saw a spike in memberships, with an extra 200 people signing up to use their services.

Regional libraries were among businesses shut when stage three restrictions came into force in early August, but Mr Preece said both their branches and residents had found ways to adapt.

“The local newsagents are printing permits for people who have access to computers,” he said.

“Our staff have still been working behind the scenes offering a click-and-collect service as well as virtual story time and craft and coffee.”

“We hope to be open soon but are glad to be providing a much needed service to rural communities,” Mr Preece said.

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