Local Libraries Get A Revamp

Kids enjoying the library with their school holidays. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council

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After months of listening to young people across the Whitsundays, Council has transformed its libraries with upgraded technology, flexible furniture and new activities aimed at bringing more young people through the doors.

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The Your Say initiative was a youth engagement project that ran between January and June, asking young people whether the library was somewhere they wanted to spend time, what programs and technology interested them, and what they felt was missing.  

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Now, that time and feedback is being seen on full display, with libraries in Proserpine, Cannonvale, Bowen and Collinsville all receiving a refresh.  

“We were able to purchase adaptable furniture, upgraded technology, like a switch and VR technology,” said Alicia Mulcahy, team leader at the Proserpine library.

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“They certainly wanted technology, which we expected, but the main thing they were after was just a space where they could feel comfortable, relax and be themselves.”

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The upgrades have also led to new programs, including a permanent Dungeons and Dragons group at Bowen Library, while Proserpine and Cannonvale are looking to follow suit if local Dungeon Masters can be found.

The consultation with young people will continue even now that the upgrades are in place, with a permanent program held at Proserpine Library every Tuesday giving participants a chance to socialise and shape future activities.

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“They actually tell us what they want to do going forward,” she said.

“The young people are also putting their little shine on it as well, it’s their space.”

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