Beyond the Books

'Libraries are a community's secret weapon in the war against ignorance and isolation. They are also sites of pleasure and entertainment, and of rich cultural experience, knowledge transfer and social connection.'

This exciting and courageous book dares to look beyond economic impact to examine how the State Library of South Australia is valued by individuals and the community. Significantly, it demonstrates the real value of our nation's libraries, museums, archives and galleries, and what we stand to lose when we don't look after them.

This book reveals the vital role libraries and other cultural institutions play in our communities, promoting our civic 'common ground' and preserving our way of life. Bolstered by insights from across the Australian cultural sector, this book addresses what cultural value means to the public today - and what they see as the best return on government spending.