The State Library of Queensland and local councils have launched a campaign called ‘How do you Library?’ to encourage deeper participation at local branches. When Queensland members were asked, ‘How do you library?’, they highlighted the diverse role libraries play beyond just borrowing books.
Libraries nurture adventure, creativity and connection, and provide invaluable services, programs, and resources. In turn, we spoke to our Good Reading community to get a better understanding of how they library!
1. Free services
Libraries provide access to free work and study spaces, bathrooms, wi-fi, and computers. They are also air-conditioned, which is great in these hot summer months!
I love using the quiet study spaces in a library when I have an assignment I need to get done! – Sarah
2. Research and questions
If you’re in need of information for an assignment, project or a personal query – the library is the place to go. Members can access print and digital resources from books, journal articles, newspaper, magazines and much more.
Perhaps you’re investigating your family history or have an arts paper due? Look no further. At libraries you can access great primary sources from historical documents, photographs, newspapers, diaries, interviews and more.
If you’re unsure of where to locate anything, just ask the friendly library staff and they’ll be sure to help.
The friendly staff get books in for me if I do a ‘request to buy’ online. I’ve not had one knocked back yet even if the system has the e-book as I like physical books. – Margaret
3. Book Club
Book clubs are a great way to meet like-minded people and make new friends. Most libraries organise book clubs that are either held in-person once a month or online via Zoom. Participation is typically subject to vacancies, but you can start your own club as well. Libraries offer a great book club collection and provide access to audio and e-books for a more seamless experience. Make sure to check in with your local branch to see
if you can participate.
Book clubs at the library! I’ve made some good friends that way. – Malvina
4. Attend free groups and classes
Libraries offer programs for both children and adults, such as English conversation groups, computer and technology training, Storytime sessions to help pre-schoolers with listening and language skills, talks with authors and artists, workshops, comedy events and more.
If you’re looking to upskill, you can also access the libraries online courses and workshops via LinkedIn Learning. There are thousands of free courses from soft skill development to software development.
Plus, libraries like the City
of Sydney provide access to various Adobe software that will give you an edge in the workplace, so inquire with
your local branch to see what they offer.
It’s a meeting point for mums to connect, to make the day less lonely and have adult conversations, take their toddlers to read books while they can have a coffee and catch up with friends. Attend rhyme and Storytime to keep the kids busy and break up the day. My local library has so many mums and kids coming through, it’s great! – Andrea
5. Media collections
Library members can access a wide range of films, television shows and video games. Depending on where you are
a member, you can access
free online streaming services such as Beamafilm or Kanopy and watch thousands of blockbusters, classics, documentaries, arthouse and independent films online.
If you prefer physical copies, you can also access their DVD collections, which include a wide range of film and TV shows. And you can borrow multiple DVDs at once!
Friendly staff, lots of collection of books, magazines, DVDs, and more, lots of clubs for all ages, author talks, and so much more. – Jessy
6. Connection
Most importantly, libraries are a place of connection and a sanctuary for isolated people. Whether you’re looking to make new friends at book club, engage with other mums at Storytime, have a chat while reading the newspaper, or learn new skills at a workshop, local libraries offer a valuable opportunity to get out of the house and connect with new people.
With no bookshop or department stores in my town, that is a real lifeline to my sanity! It also helps that staff are always friendly, helpful and happy to see you. My little library is a social hub for so many otherwise lonely and isolated people. You’ve got to love that! – Kay
Discover what your local library has to offer and join now for free! Either visit your local branch or visit their website and sign up online. And don’t forget to post #howdoyoulibrary and share how you library!
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