According to the Chairman of Central West Libraries Committee, Cr Gavin Priestley, NSW receives the lowest percentage of total library expenditure from the state government of all states and territories in Australia. The NSW State Government’s contribution to library services has diminished from 23.6% in 1980 to less than 9% in 2010-11. Over the same period, local government has increased its spending and contribute 91% to libraries operating costs.

The network of public libraries across the towns of central NSW are a vital service for communities. Along with their traditional lending roles, the libraries are important community spaces providing a place for friends and interest groups to gather, access the internet and participate in a vast array of community programs.

Reduced funding from the NSW State Government is putting a strain on the expenditure for collection resources, library staffing and opening hours.

Centroc supports the submission endorsed by the Library Council to the Minister for the Arts.