Canberra, 20 October: An exciting new partnership between the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) and the Department of Home Affairs’ Office for Social Cohesion is supporting libraries Australia wide to deliver a diverse range of programs that help build stronger and more cohesive communities.
This important initiative will see 115 public and 10 university libraries deliver 750 programs to a range of audiences including families, seniors, youth and people at risk of isolation.
ALIA CEO Cathie Warburton said the initiative provides valuable support for the important work that libraries do connecting individuals and communities.
“Libraries are increasingly becoming go-to hubs for community connection and are safe places that individuals and groups can gather for assistance, support and to foster friendships.
“Libraries, councils and universities have jumped at the opportunity to be involved in this initiative, and we are thrilled to have participating libraries in major cities as well as regional and remote areas from Burnie to Tennant Creek,” said Ms Warburton.
The Office for Social Cohesion within the Department of Home Affairs is providing each participating library service with $9,900 to support the delivery of their six programs.
Library programs delivered through this initiative will help build a shared understanding of the importance of cohesive communities, are designed to grow and strengthen connections, networks and relationships, and lay the groundwork to encourage togetherness in times of stress.
Barkly Regional Council’s Chris Kinross said the initiative has allowed staff at Tennant Creek Public Library to widen the scope of programs they can offer to bring the community together.
“We plan to begin with a month of multicultural movie programming where different community members introduce each other to a special movie from their cultural heritage as a way of opening curiosity towards the diverse lives lived in other parts of the world,” said Mr Kinross.
“This support is crucial and enables library staff to deliver enhanced programming that has very tangible benefits for their community,” said Ms Warburton. “For some libraries this means developing and delivering programs that have been on the wish list, but cost has been a barrier. For others this opportunity means libraries can expand their programs to reach more people.”
Carmel O’Sullivan, University Librarian at University of Southern Queensland emphasises the important role of university libraries in building socially cohesive communities.
“University Libraries are places where this generation’s learning and its creation of new knowledge is built upon the knowledge and wisdom of others. They are places where the curious, reflective, and innovative thinkers of our time can influence the future. They are also places where knowledge builds cohesion, understanding, and a stronger society. We are delighted to be a part of this important initiative.”
This initiative will run until April 2026.