Workshops to brainstorm libraries' opportunities

A series of community forums will be held from this Wednesday to encourage discussions about how our libraries can be learning and social hubs for the 21st Century.

The workshops will identify what people like about the libraries and their existing services - and brainstorm ways to improve and build upon the spaces and resources they provide.

Three general sessions are planned for the Armidale and Guyra libraries on 17, 20 and 30 July and will be open to all interested people. This includes current library users and, just as importantly, residents who do not visit our libraries or use their services.

"As part of this community consultation for the 21st Century Libraries Strategy, it's essential we hear from people who rarely or never use the Armidale or Guyra libraries," Council's Program Leader - Community Services, Sally Schofield, said.

"We want to hear from as many people as possible, of all ages and backgrounds, to help identify ways to encourage a greater proportion of our community to utilise the libraries’ resources and spaces."

To further encourage a diverse range of input, specific workshops will also be held for youth, members of the Aboriginal community and residents from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

See the Key Dates section of this page for further details.

"The workshops are a dynamic way to get people talking about the libraries' strengths, how they can be an even greater asset for their users and how we can make their services more relevant and appealing to a broader section of our community," Ms Schofield said.

Interested people are asked to register for one of the workshops by contacting staff at the Armidale library on 6770 3636 or the Guyra library on 6770 7123.