State Library to help children living in remote Indigenous communities to access books
The State Library of South Australia, in partnership with the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (IFL), is hosting a Great Book Swap on Wednesday 6 September 2023, as part of Indigenous Literacy Day celebrations, between 10am to 4pm.
Everyone is invited to visit the Library on the day to browse our bookstall and take a book in exchange for a note or gold coin. All the money raised helps the Indigenous Literacy Foundation provide new, culturally relevant books to remote Indigenous communities. Access to books in remote communities is challenging, as there are often no libraries or bookstores.
Director State Library of South Australia, Geoff Strempel, says “We are proud to be a part of Indigenous Literacy Day and promote and celebrate reading in the community. The State Library has a First Nations focus and is committed to reconciliation, including supporting literacy programs that help Indigenous people.”
The ILF carefully chooses culturally relevant books with about 50% being by Indigenous authors or illustrators. This is important as it allows the children to see themselves and their culture reflected in the stories, helping to build a sense of connection, belonging and pride.
Proud Indigenous Literacy Foundation Ambassador, Dr Jared Thomas believes in the profound positive outcomes that the ILF makes possible in partnership with Aboriginal people and their communities.
He says “Literacy is one of the key ingredients to success in most aspects of a person's life. Indigenous Literacy Day gives us all the opportunity to ensure that Aboriginal people, especially families in remote communities, have the best opportunity to celebrate and develop their literacy.”
If people can’t make it on the day, they can still help by making a donation on the State Library of South Australia Great Book Swap donation page.
Event details
Event: Great Book Swap on Indigenous Literacy Day
When: Wednesday 6 September 2023
Time: 10am to 4pm
Where: State Library of South Australia, glass foyer, Cnr North Terrace and Kintore Avenue.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Lucy Guster
Manager Engagement & Marketing
State Library of South Australia
M 0409 091 829
Lucy.Guster@sa.gov.au