Helen Garner says State Library of Victoria turned into ‘party central’ with planned job cuts to ‘bring disgrace’ on Melbourne

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 1 min read 100% complete by Stephanie ConveryDecember 3, 2025 at 03:01 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

Acclaimed author Helen Garner and over 220 writers are protesting planned changes at the 171-year-old State Library of Victoria. The writers have signed an open letter expressing alarm over proposed job cuts and a shift towards tourist-oriented digital projects. Garner criticizes the changes, stating the library has become "party central" and the plan will "bring disgrace" to Melbourne. The writers are calling for more public accountability from the library's board and executive regarding the restructure. The proposed changes involve cutting staff and refocusing the institution on digital experiences.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Melbourne 70% Helen Garner 80% State Library of Victoria ×290%

Keywords

state library of victoria 100% job cuts 80% digital projects 70% helen garner 60% open letter 50% restructure 50% public accountability 40% writers 40%