STREET libraries across Medowie are helping build community connections while encouraging locals of all ages to read.
Tea Tree Drive is a particular hot-spot, with three reading pockets along the road being popular stops for students from Wirreanda Public School.
“It’s good to see the kids interested,” said the owner of one library.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to have.”
The organisation behind street libraries turns 10 this year.
It encourages people of all ages to read by providing better access to reading materials.
There are more than 6,000 libraries set up across Australia, with at least eight in Medowie and support for more.
The Tea Tree Drive owner said the reaction and contribution has been “only positive”.
Street libraries operate on the principle of “Take one, leave one”.
Many have become colourful features of the suburb and are decorated with hand-painted designs and creative touches reflecting the personalities of the people who built them.
However, there are understandable concerns of destruction, mishandling and misuse.
The community is encouraged to look out for the libraries and even begin their own.
With the cost of living, these houses of stories help parents swap books regularly and contribute to their children’s reading habits.
By Ruby van de WIJGAART
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
