Queensland public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres will share in more than $890,000 for literacy programs including story trails, translating nursery rhymes into traditional languages, and pop-up libraries, thanks to investment from the Palaszczuk Government.
Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said funding had been allocated to 28 councils across the state under the latest round of Public Library Grants to fund early literary programs such as First 5 Forever, and other public library programs that help educate Queensland communities.
“Libraries are vital community hubs that provide spaces and programs for learning, literacy and storytelling, and this funding will go a long way in providing learning and engagement opportunities for Queenslanders,” Minister Enoch said.
“These grants support councils to achieve local outcomes, reach communities and highlight the important role of public libraries play in our communities.
“The State Library of Queensland’s First 5 Forever program is an important early literacy program that helps set strong foundation literary skills for children aged five and under.”
Minister Enoch said this latest round of grants included two competitive rounds, the First 5 Forever Project Grants, which is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s annual $5 million program to specifically deliver this children’s program, and Strategic Priorities Grants, which supports councils carry out activities in their local libraries.
“These grants allow councils to apply for funding for specific programs that suit the needs of their communities,” Minister Enoch said.
The Palaszczuk Government, through the State Library of Queensland, provides annual support of about $30 million to more than 320 public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres throughout Queensland.
State Librarian and Chief Executive Officer Vicki McDonald said the State Library was proud to work in partnership with more than 320 public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres to advance digital inclusion and literacy.
“We were impressed by the number and quality of applications we received from councils across the state who want to improve literacy and engagement in their communities,” Ms McDonald said.
“It’s wonderful to see some councils using the funding to recognise the United Nation’s 2019 International Year of Indigenous Languages, an initiative that we are also celebrating at State Library through exhibitions and programming.”
