40 local and regional councils in Gozo and Malta will benefit from a scheme aiming to transform local / regional libraries into community centres

The Gozo Regional Council and 39 local councils have been presented with a sum of €94,579, given through the ‘Financial Scheme – Transforming Local / Regional Libraries into Community Centres.’

The Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government explained that the aim of this scheme is to transform local and regional libraries into inclusive community centres in which citizens will have the opportunity to attend and participate in innovative activities, and further strengthen their knowledge in various areas, within a social environment.

Those local and regional councils who hold a public library were eligible to apply for funding under this scheme. This scheme covers 85% of the cost, up to a maximum of €3000 (VAT included).

All local and regional councils that have a public library were also given informative books about our environment to be put in these public libraries. There books were sponsored by the private company Norwex.

“Special attention was given towards activities which involve culture, tradition and handicrafts, and innovative proposals to further improve the way of life of the members of our society,” stated Minister for Justice, Culture and Local Government Owen Bonnici during the award ceremony.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government and Communities Silvio Parnis said that this scheme will help to further strengthen the social aspect. “The main aim of this scheme is to continue helping to transform our public libraries into social hubs for our residents.”

Photograph: DOI/Clodagh O’Neil

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