Fremantle Library is planning to launch a mobile library service to extend its reach into the community. A bi-annual report to be presented to the City of Fremantle council on November 12 outlines plans for a pilot service, with Sullivan Hall being considered as the first site.
Under the proposal, staff would use a library van to take books and resources across the city each month, allowing residents to join, borrow, and reserve items without visiting the main library. The mobile library would complement a mobile toy library, which was relaunched last month after a trial in July.
The Fremantle Toy Library, which provides toys for children aged one to eight, recently recorded its 3000th member. It is also planning its 50th anniversary celebrations. A limited number of free memberships are available for families experiencing hardship.
The bi-annual report also noted that a change in library operating hours from 9am-7pm to 8am-6pm had been welcomed by the homeless community. Additionally, two new staff members have been appointed to Library Connect, a free walk-in service providing advice, referrals, and support.
The report highlighted a case study of a mother of three who experienced homelessness, domestic violence, and financial hardship. Through Library Connect, she accessed emergency relief, material aid, food assistance, licensing support, and travel-related costs, helping her family secure transitional housing and stabilize their circumstances.
