28 January 2009

Heart-warming stories in Australian libraries

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There will be heart-warming stories in libraries across Australia this Valentine's Day, when lovers of libraries across the nation will once again claim February 14 as Library Lovers Day.

This is the third year that the Australian Library and Information Association and Public Libraries Australia have joined forces to present this combined national celebration.

"Library Lovers Day is a chance for the 12 million Australian library users to celebrate the special relationship that they have with their local library," said Sue Hutley, Executive Director of the Australian Library and Information Association.

"Library lovers are truly passionate about all that libraries offer. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, around 95% of Australians consider libraries to be very important or important – even non-users are avid supporters of libraries," Ms Hutley said.

"The access that Australians have to information, collections and services through their libraries, particularly public and school libraries, is vital for Australian literacy, education, communities and business," said Derek Whitehead, President of the Australian Library and Information Association.

"Library Lovers Day is the ideal fun way of celebrating the deep and enduring relationship between the Australian community and our libraries," Mr Whitehead said.

Library Lovers are encouraged to host a library lovers morning tea and a 'read'-dating event where singles can meet others who enjoy similar books for clients, volunteers and staff.

Sue Hutley said Australians were definitely 'library lovers'.

"We borrow around 174 million items every year from our 1700 plus public libraries and just over half the population are registered borrowers, while 77,000 Australians use 5,000 internet computers in our public libraries every week," Ms Hutley said.

"Then there's the 26 million items loaned each year by university libraries."

"Many of us love to spend time in our favourite libraries," said Sylvia Marshall, Chairperson of Public Libraries Australia. "We love to linger in the stacks browsing the ranks of perfectly aligned spines until we find just what we're looking for. Libraries are changing with the times; they are modern, vibrant and welcoming places. So, do yourself a favour and celebrate with your library on Library Lovers Day."

ENDS