Libraries Change Lives launch

Celebrity author, comedian and performer Alan Brough, will launch the Bayside ‘Libraries Change Lives’ campaign at Brighton Library on Saturday 16 March from 2pm – 4pm.

The campaign is part of the statewide program initiated by the State Library and Public Libraries Victoria to raise the profile of libraries and attract new audiences to discover the breadth of resources available in today’s libraries. All are welcome to attend the free celebration but bookings are essential via the online link www.trybooking.com/453689

Manager Bayside Libraries, Karyn Siegmann said:

“Libraries are a safe and inclusive public space with free and equal, life-changing access to art, ideas, education and social engagement, said Karyn.

“Today’s libraries are much more than a book collection: Bayside’s libraries offer a 3D printer, coding programs, virtual reality headsets, augmented reality motion games, lifestyle presenters and family history advice.”

Bayside locals are featuring in the campaign and will appear on banners, posters and flyers, in addition to telling their stories online and in print.

Library regular, Hakan Dellal, described his year of post graduate study experience in the library:

“For me the prospect of a year of post graduate study… was made even more daunting by the notion of studying at home…..I made daily progress, I made a place of work and I actually even made friends.”

Retired local, Joy Meekings, said:

“I really only started using the Library again after I retired as I had no computer at home so came to the Library to use a computer and found a fantastic new world awaited me! …. I now write plays performed on radio, poetry and am building on a career as a guest speaker at functions. I’m into my second career and am loving life.”

Library campaign supporter, Don Ashton described his connection to the library:

"Now I am retired, the library is great. It provides material, entertainment, it provides information if I care to use the online facilities.”

Campaign ambassador, Sally Hepworth said:

“Growing up, my local library fostered my love of reading, which in turn, directed me into writing.”

Library campaign advocate, Lynette Mather said:

“I can meet people at the library. I say “I’ll meet you at the library”. It’s a good meeting place..”

The Bayside community is invited to share their stories online via Council’s online platform bayside.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay

The #librarieschangelives campaign will continue until 2021.