WA libraries receive statewide innovation awards

Two public libraries in WA have received the 2019 Library Board of Western Australia Award for Innovation and Collaboration.

In the metropolitan and large regional category, the City of Canning library service was awarded for transforming its library service to support its Learning City Strategy, which is aimed at building the capacity of local businesses.

Following a refurbishment in 2018, the City of Canning’s Riverton Library now has new spaces aimed at ‘delivering an inclusive, connected and innovative community hub that serves both residents and the business community’ and hosts a mentoring program, workshops and training programs ‘designed to build business connections, capacity and capability’.

Collie Public Library’s seed library was awarded in the small regional category. The seed library was launched last year under the leadership of former information services manager Alison Kidman, in partnership with the Collie Community Garden.

The community project encourages people to grow their own produce at home, and helps children learn about where food comes from. Library patrons are also able to help themselves to herbs and vegetables grown in the library’s courtyard garden, which was grown from seeds from the seed library.

The awards were presented at a function at the State Library of Western Australia on 23 May. For more information on the winners and nominees, visit the State Library of WA website.

Category: Library news