The Withers Community Library was previously open Monday to Friday, from 9:00am to 1:00pm before the extended hours trial began.
Council has endorsed a trial to extend the library’s operating hours by 40%. Following the completion and review of this trial, a decision will be made regarding the long-term operating hours for Withers Community Library.
These changes will not affect any operating hours at Bunbury library.
The trial hours have been based on community feedback gathered during our recent engagement process. Residents expressed a strong preference for greater afternoon and weekend access to the library, as well as opportunities for more programs and services. These extended hours aim to meet those needs while allowing us to monitor usage and gather further feedback throughout the trial period.
Our wonderful library team have reviewed all services and programs at Withers Community Library to align with the trial operating hours. Details of all programs happening at Withers can be found on our Libraries Event Calendar
If you come along to any of the new programs or events, we’d love your input! Please complete the survey and let us know what your experience was like. Your feedback will help us shape a vibrant and accessible library experience for everyone.
Although the library is proposed to be closed two weekdays, this allows for Saturday mornings to be open and also extended hours on the remaining weekdays. This supports the 40% increase in hours nominated and ensures all community members can have additional accessibility in an option on the weekend and also late afternoon.
The additional operating hours have already been included in the City of Bunbury’s endorsed 2025/26 budget.
If the extended hours become permanent after the trial, future budget considerations may be required. This is something we’re asking about in the survey, so please share your thoughts to help guide the decision making process.
The extended hours trial will run until 31 December 2026. Throughout this period, we’ll collect and review all feedback received to understand what worked well and what could be improved.
After the trial concludes, Council will consider this feedback and make the final decision on the long-term operating hours for Withers Community Library.