Ever wondered what goes on in libraries after dark?
You can find out for yourself at Mill Park library, with the doors now staying open until 11pm each Thursday.
The extended opening hours are part of the Libraries After Dark program which is aimed at reducing gambling-related harm in the community.
The initiative, which is funded by the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, hopes that keeping libraries open later than normal will help create a welcoming and social space for the community.
Mayor Kris Pavlidis said that with Whittlesea currently ranked sixth of 70 local government areas for poker machine losses in Victoria, it was important the council worked to create positive spaces for residents.
“We are doing what we can to lobby the state government to make gambling reforms, however in the meantime our community is being impacted by gambling harm every day,” she said. “Libraries After Dark is aimed at counteracting the negative impact that pokies are having on our community with something really positive.
“Libraries are wonderful places, full of friendly community members and fun activities, so it’s great to be able to keep them open later into the night.”
The library is at 394 Plenty Road.
