What, where, when? These were the questions asked by Orbost Probus Club members at the June meeting, and what better place to be given the answers than the Orbost Library.
The guest speaker at the June meeting gave members much needed information on all of these questions.
Neil Richards is now the manager of the East Gippsland Shire Service Centre and the library in Orbost and at Mallacoota.
Neil was a librarian in Melbourne for many years then at Paynesville but feels that Orbost and East Gippsland has more to offer with its fascinating history and diverse scenery.
The library is not just about books, it’s a safe place for many.
The children’s’ corner is much used and a quiet place for parents to bring their children for playtime, story time and many other activities during the week, after school and especially during school holidays.
Of vital importance is the ability to use the computers as for many people in the community this service is not yet available or do not have access to a computer.
Scanning and printing documents for a small fee covers the cost of paper and ink.
The library staff do a marvellous job of helping any who have difficulty managing the new technology and short courses are run every month with a group or one-on-one sessions can be booked.
As for the books, there are many different genres available, including large print editions, talking books, e-readers, CD’s to listen to and magazines.
Most of these can be borrowed up to 20 at a time but there are a few specials that can only be read at the library.
Books can be ordered via the library catalogue and with a courier service delivering three times per week there is usually a speedy delivery if the item is in stock.
The Mobile Library is run on a rotational basis fortnightly and covers from Bendoc to Genoa, visiting all the places in between.
The bus has WiFi and shire business can be accessed such as rates and animal licences.
While Probus members were interested to hear of all the things about the library, Neil wanted to specifically thank all the members and the community for the support of keeping the library running full time.
Neil was thanked for his time and for his information.
At the June meeting a special morning tea was held to wish Glenice White farewell and all the best for her new adventure in life.
Orbost Probus members are sad to see here go but happy she can be closer to her family.
New member Lesley Clague introduced herself and gave a short resume of her life before Orbost and her happiness of living in Orbost among friendly people and the great community spirit which prevails.
Probus members will enjoy Christmas in July at the Marlo Hotel this Thursday instead of their usual general meeting.
The August meeting on Thursday 15 will be held at the Orbost Senior Citizens Club room at 10am.
The general meeting will be followed by a game of indoor bowls.
IMAGE: Orbost Probus Club president, Ros Bern, with June guest speaker, Neil Richards.
