Community cohesion programs in libraries

The Australian Library and Information Association, in partnership with the Office for Social Cohesion and supported by the Australian Public Library Alliance, is working with 115 public and 10 university libraries across the country on an exciting new community engagement initiative.

Participating libraries will host a range of programs that build, grow and protect community cohesion, helping to connect and support individuals and communities in diverse ways.

Highlights

115 public libraries

10 university libraries

750 programs reaching diverse audiences

50 libraries are located in regional Australia

8 libraries are in remote areas of Australia

Build the shared understanding of the human, social, economic and environmental value of social cohesion and the roles and responsibilities we each have in maintaining it.

Image: Decorated paper houses by participants of Neighbourhood at Deakin Library, Melbourne Burwood Campus, 2024 

Grow connections and conversations by supporting people to connect to family, friends and those with different backgrounds, perspectives, experiences, cultures and faiths, as well helping people to better connect to local and community organisations, institutions and government.

Protect cohesion, togetherness and democratic values during times of shocks and stresses.

Peace Crane Project at Fraser Coast Libraries

300 people folded origami cranes for a collaborative display that celebrated community connection, the value of belonging and encouraged personal reflection in the lead up to the International Day of Peace.

Digital Literacy at Citylibraries Aitkenvale

Digital literacy sessions helping CALD community members stay safe and connected by increasing understanding of English terms used when accessing digital tools, websites and apps.

Emergency Ready at Lake Mac Libraries

Kids' workshops teaching practical skills for disaster resilience, emergency preparedness and connecting families to key emergency ready information.

Art workshops at Mareeba Shire Libraries

Facilitated by a qualified art therapist and designed for those seeking connection and ways to manage stress these workshops supported individual healing, fostered collective resilience and encouraged community belonging.

Diwali Festival at Success Library

An all-day cultural event to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Light, and a series of workshops leading up to the event that showcased Indian culture and fostered connection and belonging.

Plant and produce awaps at Hume Libraries

Thriving monthly events where gardening enthusiasts share produce from their garden, connect and learn from each other and explore environmental issues through a local lens.

Children's Book Week at Albany Public Library

649 lower and upper primary students and 82 teachers from 10 schools participated in the program that fostered inclusive cultural exchange, active participation and connection to community and the library.

What Brings You Joy at Tumut Library

The community were invited to reflect and share what brings them joy as part of Mental Health Month. 116 contributions formed a collaborative and interactive display in the library.

The Coming of The White Birds at Cassowary Coast Libraries

The 60th anniversary of one of Australia’s longest-running citizen science projects, the Pied Imperial Pigeon Count, was celebrated with themed activities running across the library service and a community event.

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