FROM Romeo and Juliet to Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler, many great love stories have been told in the pages of a book.
And what better time to reignite a passion for literature than Library Lovers Day on February 14.
But it’s not just a day for books – just ask Kerrylee Mitchell, who fell in love with the Halekulani Community Library.
Kerrylee started volunteering at the library a year ago after she moved to the Central Coast from Newcastle. She said it was a great way to meet others in her new community.
“For me, volunteering at the library is really rewarding because it’s a win-win for everyone,” she said.
The patrons also get a lot out of the facility.
“One client said they love coming to the library because they don’t have to spend any money. Another said their visit is the only personal contact they have each week.”
The not-for-profit service was established in 1989 to cater to people living on the northern end of the coast who couldn’t access the local government libraries due to distance.
The collection includes biographies, fantasy, historical novels, mystery, romance, sci-fi, true crime, westerns and a broad range of large print books of all genres.
New and replacement books are purchased monthly and dust free donated books in good condition are gladly.
The library’s home is at Halekulani Community Hall, Noela Place Budgewoi.
It’s open Tuesdays to Fridays, 10am-2pm plus Saturdays 9.30am-12noon.
Details, Kerrylee 0413-166-173.
Love in the library
Local libraries will have a number of activities planned, including blind book dates – where you borrow a book covered in brown paper.
The day was started by Australian Library and Information Association as a way to promote reading.
To celebrate this year’s Library Lovers Day, the association is running a 200 word flash fiction story competition.
The story can be just about anything, but is has to involve love and libraries and starts with the story prompt ‘there was love to be found in the library’.
Submissions close 5pm, February 21 2019. Email media@alia.org.au or post to 9-11 Napier Close, Deakin 2600.
Competition details – www.alia.org.au
For more on Library Lovers Day events, contact your local library.
