THE State Government has just announced $109,000 in funding from its Mechanics’ Institutes Grants Program 2024-25 and the little Toora library is one of the recipients.

It’s one of 11 Victorian Mechanics’ Institutes which continue to provide a library services, and together with the other 10, will receive $9000 in funding for some much-needed improvements.

The grant will go towards some additional shelving, a desk and an ergonomic chair.

The Toora Library is open Tuesday to Thursday, 10am to 2pm.

Speaking about the funding, Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos, said Mechanics Institutes had a rich history of serving their communities.

“Mechanics’ Institutes have a proud record of being a space for learning and community globally for over 200 years. These grants will ensure that they can continue to serve Victorians,” said Mr Staikos.

“Mechanics’ Institutes were one of the most important social innovations of the 19th century – these grants will help their invaluable library collections remain for future generations to enjoy.”

Across Victoria the funding will allow the Institute’s libraries to renovate their facilities, pursue historical projects, purchase books, software and equipment, and digitise records.

Mechanics’ Institutes were formed in the early 19th century to provide free lectures and educational and community facilities in the UK. More than 500 Mechanics’ Institute buildings in Victoria are still used for community groups, exhibitions, talks, and events.

While 11 libraries will get $9000 each, the peak body Mechanics’ Institutes of Victoria will also receive funding of $10,000.

Victoria’s first Mechanics’ Institute – the Melbourne Athenaeum in Collins Street which formed in 1839 – will use its grant on an oral history project, recording interviews with artists, performers, historians and others associated with the building.

The Prahran Mechanics’ Institute (PMI) will update the IT infrastructure that supports its various collections.

Footscray Mechanics’ Institute will spend its grant on new books and building refurbishment while Berwick Mechanics’ Institute will purchase new books and chairs.

The Mechanics’ Institutes of Victoria will use its grant to build, print and bind its collection, upgrade its website, update its accounting software, review its workshop and digitise its records.

The other Mechanics’ Institute libraries receiving funding include Ballarat, Bonnie Doon, Little River, Maldon, Stanley, Talbot and Toora.