A love letter to libraries in Canberra
Posted on
Canberra has physical local libraries ready to use every day of the week (yep, even Sundays). Here’s why we love them.
Ask any bookworm what the ultimate gift in the world is, and the answer will probably come back to owning a personal library like Belle’s in Beauty and the Beast. Books lining the walls that can only be reached via a ladder, ideally one on wheels that slides along the stacked shelves.
While building a personal library is a wonderful long-term goal, there are extensive costs involved, namely buying all the books to fill the shelves. But just because a personal library may not be readily available, Canberra has physical local libraries ready to use every day of the week (yep, even Sundays).
Lake Tuggeranong Library has a beautiful view of the lake to accompany a book; Woden Library is tucked away like a cosy hidey-hole, and the Civic Library holds firm on its status as a Canberra icon alongside Canberra Theatre and the Canberra Museum & Gallery.
So, for Canberrans wanting to get back into reading or trying to curb the book-buying habit, libraries are a great alternative.
The Admin Stuff. Don’t worry, it’s all quite easy.
First off, it’s super easy to register for an account, or recover an account. You can register online, then visit your local library branch with either your photo ID, proof of residency or proof that you work or study in the ACT. Once members register an account, everything can be managed online! Reserving books online, ordering books online, renewing loans – all of it can be managed independently if you’re a busy and forgetful gal like me.
If for whatever reason you don’t have a physical library card, the library emails members a barcode (smartphone compatible) that can be scanned to borrow the book. Better yet, if you have multiple books to pick up, that barcode can be used for those books too. Even better, libraries now have self-service, so if you need to duck in and out, you’re covered. Just make sure the phone isn’t in dark mode when scanning the barcode; otherwise, it won’t work.
For people thinking, “gosh, I’m not a fast reader; I don’t like the pressure of reading with a deadline,” have no fear! Renewals are here! In most instances, the book can be borrowed for about a month, and as long as there isn’t an extensive waitlist, it can be renewed up to five times.
Also, this article has largely focused on books, but DVDs, CDs, video games, and all sorts of media can be borrowed from the library. For all the times a streaming service has let you down with its movie collection, I can almost guarantee you the library will have it.
Doesn’t this all sound so wonderful and easy? It gets even better.
The fun stuff!
For Canberrans reading this and worried about supporting local authors and bookstores, I couldn’t agree more! I frequented the old Dymocks at Tuggeranong while in high school and am a regular patron at Harry Hartog in Woden. At the same time, it’s important to consider alternatives for the many Canberrans unable to buy books.
The great thing about borrowing library books is they still pay authors! Under the Australian Lending Rights, authors receive payment each time their book, both physical and e-book/audio, is borrowed from the library! How great is that!
Libraries also host loads of author events. In July, the National Library of Australia hosted Dr Melanie Saward and Brooke Blurton to discuss their joint book, A Good Kind of Trouble. Awad and Blurton spoke extensively about how their lived experiences were actualised in the book, and shared their frustrations with the Australian publishing industry. Both were also quick to sing the praises of libraries. These events help spotlight Australian authors and bring their work to the forefront, so readers can also support authors by going to these events. Check out all upcoming events and exhibitions at the National Library.
In line with supporting groups and communities, libraries also often host reading events. For those of you with kids or are involved with kids, taking them to these reading events like Story Time or Giggle & Wiggle is a great way to get them out and about while engaging their active imagination.
Libraries also host workshops for essential skills like financial literacy and learning English, which are also great ways to engage with the community and Canberrans. Check out the event calendar!
So, next time you’re in a reading slump or want to try something new or want to get out of the house, head down to your local library and leave your wallet at home. It’s a space for everyone.
