We’re always talking about how public libraries add value to their communities – it’s one of the foundation stones of the forthcoming ALIA Public Libraries Summit. If we needed further evidence of this we need go no further than the results of the 2009 NSW Cultural Awards  which were presented last Friday. Public libraries shone brightly with their innovative and engaging projects.

Congratulations to Randwick City Library Service whose winning project Migrant’s Story provided a unique opportunity for children and older migrants to interact, form lasting relationships and experience life from another’s point of view.

The uplifting stories were collated into a book which was launched by Peter Garrett AM, Member for Kingsford Smith and Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Arts. The stories that the young participants have created has provided a lasting record of multicultural history for generations to come.

Kogarah Library and Cultural Services’ highly commended Connecting Community and Culture project provided the opportunity to connect people from differing age groups, socio-economic and cultural backgrounds through planned community and cultural events, workshops and exhibitions undertaken throughout 2008, The cultural programs bought a new element to traditional Library services and positioned the Library as a cultural hub.

Hurstville City Library, Museum & Gallery was also highly commended for their collaborative approach to inspiring events, innovative exhibitions, and technological tools to engage their diverse communities. The  Chinese community was celebrated in Kung Hei Fat Choy, a photographic exhibition and collection display; Indigenous artists worked with Hurstville City Library, Museum & Gallery in the extremely popular Annette Webb and Friends exhibition; while schools, children/families participated in Show Offs! an exhibition of artworks from three special schools.

Well done to all 3 libraries - I hope you celebrated appropriately!

Jan Richards

ALIA Vice-President