In a heartwarming collaboration between the LBW Trust, Friends of Libraries Australia (FOLA), and Harvey Norman, 78 country libraries across regional, rural, and remote Australia have reason to celebrate. This excitement stems from the much-needed funding they have received through the Trust’s 2023 National Backyard Cricket (NBYC) campaign in Leeton Shire Library.
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The Gift to Leeton Shire Library
Leeton Shire Library is among the fortunate 78 libraries to be awarded a National Backyard Cricket Grant. With a generous sum of $1,200.00 in hand, the library is poised to upgrade and extend its musical instrument collection. “We are profoundly thankful for this funding from National Backyard Cricket. It truly makes a significant difference for small, rural communities like ours,” remarked Rachel Cody, who initiated the grant application.
Spreading Good Fortune
A substantial sum of $110,126 was disbursed to libraries across different Australian states: New South Wales (29 libraries), Queensland (4 libraries), South Australia (13 libraries), Tasmania (5 libraries), Victoria (8 libraries), and Western Australia (19 libraries). The funds have been allocated for a diverse range of projects, highlighting the versatility of these grants.
Varied Endeavors
- Seed Library: Some libraries are establishing a Seed Library, fostering a culture of sustainability and gardening.
- Mindfulness Meditation Workshops: Several libraries are holding mindfulness meditation workshops, promoting mental well-being.
- Story Dog Program: A unique initiative being introduced is the Story Dog program, where trained dogs help children improve their reading skills.
- Digital Literacy Programs: Educational programs to enhance digital literacy are on the agenda for some libraries.
- Aboriginal Cultural Education: Events promoting Aboriginal cultural education are taking place in certain Leeton Shire Library.
- Summer Reading Challenge: A summer reading challenge will engage readers of all ages.
- Teenager-led STEM Club: The Innovation Station, a teenager-led STEM Club, is set to operate weekly at Broome Public Library in Western Australia.
A Cricketing Connection
“Backyard cricket holds a special place in Australia, and it is wonderful to combine our love for cricket with supporting country libraries,” expressed NBYC Chair Marek Ristwej. The funding was made possible by the generous donations of individuals who participated in the 2022/2023 NBYC events, along with the invaluable support from retailer Harvey Norman and LBW Trust supporters. Ristwej shared his excitement about the projects coming to life and the positive impact they will have on their respective communities.
Libraries: The Heart of Communities
FOLA President Jack Goodman emphasized the significance of country Leeton Shire Library within communities. He stated, “Country libraries are at the heart of the community, providing havens where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to share ideas, learn new skills, and connect with each other.” These grants exemplify the outstanding projects run by Australia’s under-funded and under-valued country public libraries.
Harvey Norman’s Commitment
John Slack-Smith, Chief Operating Officer & Executive Director at Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd, expressed his pride in supporting Australian country Leeton Shire Library. With 65% of Harvey Norman Franchised complexes located in regional Australia, they are actively supporting vital initiatives like this one, ensuring small communities gain access to the technology they need to flourish and strengthen their community bonds.
The National Backyard Cricket grants have not only provided much-needed financial support but also underlined the importance of libraries in fostering community growth and development. The impact of these grants will undoubtedly resonate far beyond the walls of these libraries.
Source: miragenews