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Georges River Council Libraries; a place for everyone

19/09/2024

Our local libraries have always been cornerstones of our community, offering a wealth of resources, activities, and opportunities for everyone. We are proud to remind the public about the diverse range of inclusive programs available across our five library branches, designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, background, or ability, has access to enriching experiences.
 
Our libraries are committed to providing programs that cater to the diverse needs of our community. These programs include:

  • Rainbow Story Times: Our Rainbow Story Times feature books from our library collection and help teach children about important themes such as family, love and friendship, embracing diversity, and belonging. These special story time events are part of our public library mission to provide inclusive spaces for our community and to ensure access to information for personal development, cultural enrichment and the enhancement of democracy.

  • Accessibility Services: We offer resources for individuals with visual, hearing, or mobility impairments, including large print books, audiobooks, and digital content online. We also offer a Home Library Service to support people  who have difficulty getting to the library including people with a disability, carers and people in nursing homes. Our friendly library staff are always available to help our patrons find the collections and services they are looking for.

  • Cultural and Language Programs: To celebrate our community's diversity, we offer language classes, cultural events, and bilingual reading materials. These programs help bridge language barriers and foster a sense of belonging for non-native English speakers. We celebrate National Reconciliation Week and Harmony Week with programs that reflect the many different types of families who live in our Georges River community.

  • Tech for Everyone: Our libraries provide technology training programs for individuals of all ages and abilities, including seniors, people with disabilities, and those unfamiliar with digital tools. These sessions cover basic computer skills, internet safety, and the use of assistive technologies.

  • Mental Health and Wellness: We offer a variety of mental health and wellness programs, including meditation workshops, support groups, and access to mental health resources. These programs aim to provide a safe space for discussion and support within our community. In October for Mental Health Month, there will be a mindfulness session on emotional regulation and coping skills, going over coping strategies and take-home craft.

  • Pride Book Club: Council implements and supports a wide range of community development initiatives to foster community cohesion including Pride Month, Harmony Day and National Reconciliation Week. Our regular Pride Book Club is one element of the inclusive programming we have developed with our community. This is part of Council’s commitment to embracing diversity and ensuring bigotry, intolerance, violence, and discrimination towards any section of our community is not tolerated.

We are proud to work with local organisations to expand our reach and impact. We also work closely with early learning centres, schools, nursing homes and community groups to ensure that our services and programs are accessible to all.
 
Our libraries continually evaluate our programs and collections, using customer feedback to ensure our services continue to inspire and engage our changing community. We encourage all community members to take advantage of these inclusive programs. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, meet new people, or simply enjoy a good book, our libraries are here for you. Your participation and feedback are vital in helping us continue to grow and adapt our services to better serve everyone in our community.
 
Visit one of our five local Council libraries:

  • Hurstville Library.
  • Clive James Library and Service Centre Kogarah.
  • Oatley Library.
  • Penshurst Library.
  • South Hurstville Library.

You can also check our website for more information on our inclusive programs on our Council’s Libraries page and What’s On page. Together, we can make our libraries a welcoming place for all.