One million is one of those milestones that deserve special mention. It emphasises how busy and how well used the library is, and it places us in the same league as public libraries with similar loans, but serving much larger populations.

This is very welcome news as we prepare to celebrate 25 years of service in 2005. Last year, 2003/04, was one in which much was achieved.

New library software was installed which provides access to the library 24 hours a day. Users may search our catalogue and online databases, reserve items, and check and renew loans from their own terminals at home or work.

Over the last two years, we have installed a new circulation desk and terminals, purchased new software, and expanded the children's and youth services areas. These changes have been prompted by an increasing demand for library services.

The public library is recognised as an important cultural and community service. However, according to a recent ABC Radio National discussion on the rising influence of culture and creativity, libraries do not rate a mention.

The emerging C Generation visits museums and art galleries, acquires artworks and other cultural artefacts, but does not seem to need libraries. As C stands for culture and creativity, I was bemused by this learned discussion.

Bureau of Statistics figures for 2002 show that 42.1% of Australians aged 18 and over used libraries and made 6.1 million visits. Museums were used by 24.9% who made 3.6 million visits, and art galleries were used by 25% who made 3.6 million visits.

I am sure that if the figures included those aged under 18, library figures would be even much higher than for the other facilities. Fortunately, those who work in various cultural facilities - especially in regional Australia - view their services as complementary.

I suspect a problem of perception arises when culture is discussed. There is Culture and there is popular culture. Because public libraries, in particular, provide such a broad range of services, they are viewed as providers of community services, and not as cultural institutions.

My bet is that public library users don't care for these pointless arguments about definitions of culture. Visiting the library is unlikely to be regarded as a profound Cultural experience, but more as a delightful and popular cultural occasion. This is our contribution to the identification of this region as the cultural capital of the Wide Bay.