Gympie libraries break membership record

Published on 21 May 2026

library memberships

Record membership numbers at Gympie Regional Libraries are keeping books in constant circulation, with more than 26,800 residents now signed up to the free service. 

This equates to a membership base that is almost half of the Gympie Region’s population. 

Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig said the membership milestone highlighted the important role libraries played in supporting communities across the Gympie Region. 

“Gympie Regional Council libraries are free to use, so everyone in the community—regardless of income—can access books, internet, programs and support services, “Mayor Hartwig said. 

“That’s a deliberate choice Council makes when deliberating its annual budget.  By making the service free we aim to ensure equal access to information, support for learning and literacy and welcoming community spaces for all residents. 

“Record membership demonstrates just how much residents value our libraries, which are far more than just places to borrow books.  

“They are vibrant community spaces where people can access more than 21 million physical and digital resources, use computers, and take part in a wide range of workshops and programs, from early childhood activities delivered under the First 5 Forever initiative through to adult technology classes. 

“Achieving this membership milestone would not have been possible without our dedicated library staff. From helping residents trace their family history in the local history room to guiding them towards their next great read, the team consistently delivers exceptional service that keeps members coming back and has them spreading the word about their positive experiences to friends and family. 

“If you’re not already a member of Gympie Regional Libraries, join today. Membership is free and provides you access to all six library branches in the Gympie Region.” 

Gympie Regional Libraries operate six branches across the region: 

  • Gympie Library – 8–14 Mellor Street, Gympie | Phone: 5481 0859 | Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 9am–5pm; Thursday: 9am–7pm; Saturday: 9am–12noon  
  • Goomeri Library – 5 Moore Street, Goomeri | Phone: 4168 4340 | Opening Hours: Tuesday–Wednesday: 9am–12noon; Thursday: 1pm–4pm; Friday: 9am–12noon  
  • Imbil Library – 123–125 Yabba Road, Imbil | Phone: 5484 5488 | Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday: 9.30am–12.30pm; Wednesday & Friday: 2pm–5pm  
  • Kilkivan Library – 31 Bligh Street, Kilkivan | Phone: 5484 1209 | Opening Hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday: 9am–12noon; Tuesday & Wednesday: 2pm–5pm  
  • Rainbow Beach Library – Rainbow Beach Community Hall, Rainbow Beach Road, Rainbow Beach | Phone: 5486 3705 | Opening Hours: Monday & Thursday: 9.30am–12.30pm; Wednesday & Friday: 2pm–5pm; Saturday: 9am–12noon  
  • Tin Can Bay Library – 47 Tin Can Bay Road, Tin Can Bay | Phone: 5486 4355 | Opening Hours: Monday & Wednesday: 9am–12.30pm; Tuesday–Friday: 9am–5pm; Saturday: 9am–12noon 

For more information visit: Home | Gympie Library 

ENDS  

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