Living Libraries Grant Success - Hopetoun
Published on 04 November 2026
New Chapter for Hopetoun Library with $455,400 Funding Boost
Yarriambiack Shire Council has welcomed $455,400 in Victorian Government funding to deliver the Hopetoun Library Expansion Project, creating a larger, more accessible and flexible library and community service for Hopetoun and northern Yarriambiack Shire.
The funding has been awarded through the 2026–27 Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and will support the redevelopment of the existing Hopetoun Library facility.
The project responds to strong growth in use of the library, with patronage increasing from 199 visits in 2023–24 to 334 in 2024–25, before reaching 500 visits in 2025–26. Council has increasingly positioned Hopetoun Library as a gateway library hub for communities across the northern part of the Shire.
Yarriambiack Shire Council Mayor Andrew McLean said the funding was an important investment in services and opportunities available to people living in Hopetoun and surrounding communities.
“This is fantastic news for Hopetoun and our northern communities. The growth we have seen in library use demonstrates just how important this service has become, not only as a place to access books, but as a place for people to learn, connect and access services.”
“This investment will allow us to create a modern and welcoming library that better meets the needs of children and families, students, older residents, workers and people seeking access to digital services and learning opportunities.”
“For our rural communities, having these services available locally really matters. We thank the Victorian Government for supporting Council’s vision for a stronger library service in Hopetoun and for investing in infrastructure that will benefit our community well into the future.”
The project will create a larger, purpose-designed library space within the existing Hopetoun facility and will include reconfiguration of the library footprint, dedicated program and learning areas, improved access arrangements, self-service entry infrastructure, library technology, fit-for-purpose shelving and furniture, improved service points and accessibility works.
Importantly, the expanded facility will support a new service model combining staffed Customer Service hours with self-service library access outside staffed times, giving residents greater flexibility in when they can use the library.
The additional space and improved facilities will also create greater capacity for activities including Storytime and early-years literacy programs, school holiday activities, digital skills support, study and remote working, reader services and lifelong learning programs.
The library shares the building with Hopetoun & District Neighbourhood House. The redevelopment will strengthen its role as an accessible community hub, bringing library services, Council customer contact and Neighbourhood House programs together in one location.
Council will now progress the project through its established procurement and project delivery processes. It is envisaged the project will be complete in late 2027 - early 2028.
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Cr Andrew McLean
Mayor
Yarriambiack Shire Council