Libraries Grant for Regional, Rural and Remote Libraries

Published on 19 July 2024

The LBW Trust and FOLA Australian Country Libraries Grant for Regional, Rural and Remote Libraries

The LBW Trust in collaboration with Friends of Libraries Australia (FOLA), has announced that 79 country libraries throughout regional, rural and remote Australia are the recipients of much needed funding through the Trust’s Australian Country Libraries 2024 Program. Libraries in remote areas serve as essential community hubs where people can gather, learn and connect.

$101,429.16 was distributed to 79 libraries (NSW 25; QLD 8; VIC 9; SA 17; WA  20) to support a diverse range of projects including: back to nature programs; storytelling through puppetry; resources and activities for neurodivergent young people; textile waste awareness workshops; digital literacy programs for seniors; and a community seed library for bush fire affected Snowy Monaro area.

Hindmarsh Shire Libraries was one of 79 libraries, and one of only 9 in Victoria, to receive funding under The LBW Trust and FOLA Australian Country Libraries 2024 Program. Funding received will enable the purchase of several items for sensory play and engagement, for use in our library space and in conjunction with Supported Playgroup sessions and story time.

Hindmarsh Shire Council CEO, Monica Revell said "we are very grateful to receive this funding from The LBW Trust and Friends of Libraries Australia. The funding will make a significant difference to our community.”

“Cricket holds a special place in Australia, and it is wonderful to be able to combine our love of cricket with supporting country libraries” says The LBW Trust Director and National Backyard Cricket Chair Marek Ristwej. “Funding has been made possible by the generous donations of individuals who participated in our National Backyard Cricket events, plus great support from The LBW Trust supporters. We look forward to seeing the projects come to life and the difference they will make in their community.”

FOLA President Jack Goodman says “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 are another example of the exceptional projects being run by Australia’s under-funded and under-valued country public libraries.”

For more information, please contact Petra Croot, Director Corporate and Community Services, on 03 5391 4444 or email libraries@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.

Monica Revell
Chief Executive Officer