How Do You Library?

Proserpine Library recently hosted its first ‘How Do You Library?’ event on Saturday, February 15, which aimed to boost library membership and raise awareness about the diverse range of services libraries provide. This exciting initiative was made possible with the generous support of a State Library of Queensland microgrant.

The event offered a plethora of engaging activities for all ages, with special programming for adults, including the innovative ‘Make a Space’ project, a family-friendly ‘First Five Forever’ program, and new membership sign-ups.

Attendees were treated to exciting giveaways and grand prizes that added a touch of excitement to the day. Among the standout prizes was a set of JBL Wave Beam True Wireless Earphones and a chance to win a Lenovo Tab M11 + Pen (128GB) tablet, a highly coveted gadget.

In addition, existing members had the opportunity to take home exclusive goodies from the Book Tree, including stylish tote bags, reading accessories, and much more. The atmosphere was further enhanced by a creative bookmark competition and a delicious cake.

Library staff were overjoyed with the high turnout, as the event attracted a large number of people eager to engage with their local library. Alicia Mulcahy, one of the event organisers, expressed her enthusiasm for the event’s success and the overwhelming community participation:

“Organising events like these can always be a little nerve-wracking, especially the first one, as Proserpine is the first stop in a series of four expos we’re doing in our community,” she said.

“We’re also bringing this event to Collinsville, Bowen, and wrapping things up in Cannonvale. The community’s response has really shown up!”

The event proved to be a resounding success, providing a fantastic opportunity for the community to connect with the library and explore the wide array of services it offers. Alicia took the time to explain just how valuable a library membership can be, highlighting not only access to physical resources but also a wealth of digital content:

“With a library membership, you get access not just to our physical collections but to our extensive online resources as well. We offer eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, newspapers, and even an Audible account—absolutely free of charge.”

Alicia emphasised the library's unique position as a community hub:

“Everything in libraries is free, and we’re a place where you can come, connect with others, and not spend any money while enjoying all the resources we offer. It’s a space that brings people together and makes learning and entertainment accessible to all.”

The ‘How Do You Library?’ event was a clear success, leaving both participants and organisers eager for future opportunities to celebrate the valuable role libraries play in the community.

Future How Do You Library? Events:

Bowen Library: 8:45-11:45am, Saturday 22nd March

Collinsville Library: 9am-12pm, Friday 4th April

Cannonvale Library: 8:45-11:45am, Saturday 3rd May

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Caption 1: Kimko Asuke-rowe, Alison Hely, Helan Mckean, Alicia Mulcahy  and Tracy Staniland

Caption 2: Staff with the cake

Caption 3: The delicious cake at the Proserpine ‘How Do You Library?’ event

Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

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