The Minister said that the package also includes a 20% increase to the Public Lending Right fund – the money that is paid to New Zealand authors that have books available through our public libraries. The $1.6 million extra over four years is the first increase to the fund since 2008.
LIANZA President, Rachel Esson says
LIANZA Immediate Past President, Paula Eskett and incoming President-elect, Erica Rankin, were at the announcement this morning with Minister Martin and National Librarian Bill Macnaught at Christchurch City Library, Tūranga and sent these photos.
Minister Martin making the budget announcement
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A major funding package for libraries will allow them to play a far greater role in supporting their communities and people seeking jobs as part of the economic recovery from COVID-19.
“Budget 2020 contains over $60 million of funding to protect library services and to protect jobs,” says Internal Affairs Minister Tracey Martin. “This package provides for free internet access in all public libraries to ensure that anyone can access the online services and information they need. “It also recognises the role that librarians play in providing this support. Half of this funding, $30 million, will ensure around 170 librarian jobs are directly protected. |
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The $58.8m of funding over four years includes:
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“It’s a much-needed boost to keep these services going and support the New Zealand public through the recovery.”
The Minister said that the package also includes a 20% increase to the Public Lending Right fund – the money that is paid to New Zealand authors that have books available through our public libraries. The $1.6 million extra over four years is the first increase to the fund since 2008.
