Rediscover a wealth of knowledge and experience at your local library
QUEENSLANDERS are being encouraged to rediscover their local libraries as part of a new statewide initiative, ‘How do you Library?’ which launched last Friday (February 14)
The campaign aims to showcase the diverse benefits of libraries and inspire more residents to take advantage of the free resources and activities available.
The initiative highlights the surprising ways libraries support creativity, community engagement, and lifelong learning.
From LEGO-building sessions for children and family history research to First 5 Forever storytime events and technology workshops, Queensland’s 325 public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) offer something for everyone.
Minister for Education and the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek, said the campaign is designed to raise awareness of the vital role libraries play in communities across the state.
“Local libraries provide enormous value to our communities, with the ‘How do you Library?’ campaign encouraging us all to engage with the impressive range of programs and services on offer,” he said.
“Libraries are vibrant hubs which support lifelong learning and provide essential services for Queenslanders—no matter where they live.”
Queenslanders have shown a strong connection with their local libraries, making 17 million visits in 2023–24 and borrowing or accessing 42 million items.
On the Sunshine Coast, libraries in Maleny, Beerwah, and Kenilworth offer unique services, including Seed Libraries and Future Engineers clubs for children, alongside technology support sessions.
In addition, Sunshine Coast Libraries are hosting workshops throughout February and March in Maleny and Beerwah, covering topics such as energy bill savings, crochet, garden lighting design, and botanical drawing
The Sunshine Coast Mobile Library Service ensures residents in remote and regional areas have access to library services, with 20 scheduled stops, including Conondale, Eudlo, Eumundi, Montville, Mooloolah and Palmwoods.
For those interested in local history, the regional Heritage Collection housed at Nambour Library, along with area-specific collections in Beerwah, Kenilworth, and Maleny, offers insights into the Sunshine Coast’s past. Specialist research assistance is also available for historical inquiries.
Beerwah and Kenilworth libraries further enhance their offerings with dedicated toy libraries, ensuring the youngest members of the community have access to engaging and educational play resources.
With a wealth of opportunities available, the How do you Library? campaign is inviting all Queenslanders to discover—or rediscover—their local library and take advantage of the many ways these community spaces enrich lives.