Alexandrina Council’s library depot in Milang will move to the Milang Old School House Community Centre (MOSHCC) over the next few months.

The relocation means residents can drop-off library items and pick-up on-hold resources during MOSHCC opening hours, Monday to Friday.

The council’s library depot has been operating part-time out of a small room attached to the Milang Institute on Coxe Street since 1997.

It is currently open 4.5 hours a week on Monday afternoons, 3pm to 5pm, and Friday mornings 9.30 am to 12noon.

The move has been prompted by recent concerns about the suitability of library facilities at the Institute. 

The attached room only has one door and can only be accessed externally, so it does not meet modern Work, Health and Safety (WHS) regulations on emergency exits.

CEO Nigel Morris says the library depot in Milang is a much loved service in the town with around 720 visitors last financial year.

“Nearly three quarters of the visits are to collect items booked online. 

“Council wants to maintain this important service for the community, but we do need to address WHS issues, and we are also aware of ongoing internet connection problems in the facility.

“We have been talking to the Milang and Districts Community Association (MADCA) about using some space at their MOSHCC for a pick-up and drop-off point for library resources.

“MADCA has been incredibly supportive of this option and so Council is now in the process of making the transition to a new location. We hope to be completely moved by Monday 30 September.

“Our library team is excited about the new opportunities presented by being in the MOSHCC and are hoping to promote all the services that can be accessed via the library service, with the aim of increasing usage and membership.

“The library service at MOSHCC will provide a more flexible and user-friendly experience because it is open daily.

“The library team will be assisting to ensure the digital on-line library experience is optimised for the community.

“They are looking to host drop in sessions at MOSHCC to provide one-on-one digital assistance.

“Council is continuing to provide a financial contribution to the MOSHCC and Council’s Community Development team has been assisting with providing activities at the Milang Youth Hub.”

Alexandrina Library officer Sally Primiero is preparing for the move.