From Saturday 22 August, South Australian children can step into Little Library, a free, inclusive library unlike anything the state has seen before, designed entirely for little hands, little eyes and big imaginations.
At the heart of the State Library of South Australia, Little Library brings together the science of Raising Literacy Australia's Words Grow Minds campaign and a design philosophy built entirely around children. The result is a vibrant and interactive world of play-based learning, story-led activities and engaging programs where little visitors can explore, discover and grow.
Little Library was made possible through a $2 million investment from the South Australian Government’s Arts Investment Fund, a landmark commitment to the creativity, curiosity and literacy of South Australia's youngest minds.
The Hon Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia said:
“Learning to read is one of life’s most important skills but it’s also important to experience joy in reading and books. We are proudly supporting the Little Library which will help do just that – creating an environment to spark and foster a lifelong love of reading and books for South Australian children. We know that literacy is the foundation for learning, imagination and opportunity, which is why our Government is investing in giving children the best possible start.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Arts, Kyam Maher MLC said:
“The State Government is proud to invest in the learning and imagination of South Australian children. This is a space that makes literacy feel like an adventure, and that spirit is at the very heart of our commitment to investing in South Australia's arts and cultural institutions for generations to come. I have no doubt South Australian children and families will be absolutely captivated from the moment they walk through the doors.”
Designed by global experience design agency, Art Processors and brought to life by South Australian construction company, Chappell Builders, Little Library has a distinct playful aesthetic featuring bold colours and bespoke artworks from Adelaide-based creatives, Carlo Jensen, Andrew Joyner and Lawson Dodd.
Little Library has also been developed in collaboration with Kaurna Warra Pintyanthi and the Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music at Adelaide University to incorporate elements of the Kaurna Songbook, creating opportunities for children and families to engage with Kaurna language, culture and storytelling.
State Library of South Australia Director, Megan Berghuis is proud to have led the development of Little Library alongside a talented team and believes the result is something truly extraordinary for South Australian children and families to experience reading and learning.
“We’re thrilled to open Little Library and invite children, families and carers to explore the space and connect through stories, share a love of reading or discover the joy of books for the first time.
With books and storytelling at the heart of the experience, Little Library has been thoughtfully designed to support the diverse literacy levels of South Australian children and share the local stories that celebrate the places, people and perspectives of South Australia.
We’ve worked closely with the Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music and Kaurna Warra Pintyanthi at Adelaide University to incorporate elements of the Kaurna Songbook into Little Library, connecting generations and fostering a sense of belonging through the stories that make us.”
Created in partnership with the City of Adelaide Library, Little Library combines State and Public Library expertise to offer a curated collection of books for young readers, borrowing services, hands-on activities and an evolving program of events designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Little Library is on the ground floor of the Spence Wing at the State Library of South Australia on North Terrace. To celebrate the opening weekend, free activities will be running throughout the State Library on Saturday 22 August 10am-5pm and Sunday 23 August 12pm-5pm.
More information about Little Library, opening hours and activities is available at: slsa.sa.gov.au/little-library
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MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Natalia Gagliardi
CALLIE
0431 022 655
natalia@callie.com.au
Isabel Ezis
CALLIE
0466 598 240
isabel@callie.com.au