Indigenous books to mark NAIDOC Week

A new range of children’s Indigenous literature is about to hit the shelves of the Broken Hill City Library as part of NAIDOC week.

The new collection features stories suitable for all ages including titles such as ‘Sorry, sorry’ and ‘Stolen girl’ by a range of Indigenous authors including Ezekiel Kwaymullina, Ros Moriary, Gregg Dreise, Renee Fogorty, and Bronwyn Houston.

"The stories will allow the community to immerse themselves in the diverse culture of our nation's first people for NAIDOC week, and many of the stories are incredibly moving," said Fallon Spangler, Community Engagement Library Technician.

"My personal favourite is ‘I love me’ by Sally Morgan and Ambelin Kwaymullina which encourages self-acceptance in a simple, eye-catching way with bright colours."

The addition of $1,500 worth of new books has been made possible thanks to a local priority grant used to increase the amount and quality of Indigenous literature available to the community.

Staff used a range of resources in growing the collection, including listening to a recent webinar from Anita Heiss to learn about 'Black Words' - a comprehensive website on Indigenous authors, storytelling and literary culture.

The books were purchased from Magabala books which is a leading Indigenous publishing house based in Broome that specialises in quality literature celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Authors and illustrators.

In addition, a new shelf to display the books was also purchased which will also feature a selection of 'reluctant readers' books which include books with dyslexic-friendly features from Barrington Stoke publishers.

"Come in and check out the range of new books, borrowing and membership is completely free," said Ms Spangler.