Balancing the Books: The Value of Public Libraries

Hear from NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey, State Librarian Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon and more on the value of public libraries.

As part of the State Library's 200 year anniversary, the Committee for Sydney is pleased to partner with the State Library of NSW to host a timely discussion on the value of public libraries, informed by new research commissioned by the State Library from SGS Economics and Planning and Prescience Research.

Public libraries are enduring places for books, research and scholarship, and they are also increasingly important civic spaces that support learning, access, connection and opportunity. As NSW plans for growth and works to deliver density done well, civic public spaces like libraries matter more than ever.

This event will feature a reflections from the NSW Treasurer and the State Librarian, followed by a panel discussion with leaders involved in the design, delivery and stewardship of NSW public libraries.

Understanding the value libraries create is critical to smarter policy, better funding decisions and stronger community outcomes.

Join us for a lively conversation unpacking the social, cultural and economic value of public libraries, and what this means for the way we plan, fund and deliver civic infrastructure and services across NSW.

Speakers include:

• The Hon Daniel Mookhey MLC, NSW Treasurer
• Dr Caroline Butler Bowdon, NSW State Librarian
• Kiersten Fishburn, Secretary, Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure
• Mayor Darcy Byrne, President, Local Government NSW
• Elysa Dennis, Manager Library and Museum Services, Liverpool City Council
• Dr James Jiang, Editor, Sydney Review of Books, Writing & Society Research Centre
• Alison Holloway, Principal and Partner, SGS Economics and Planning

Can't wait to see you there.