5 minutes with Anne-Marie Loeskow

The ‘hum of activity’ is what Isaac Regional Council Arts and Cultural Development Officer Anne-Marie loves most about libraries. And she’s got a plan for making them come alive even more …!

Anne-Marie Loeskow

How did you first come to be part of the libraries?

In November 2015, I started as a casual library assistant in the St Lawrence and Carmila libraries. In April 2016, I became the Arts and Cultural Development Officer, and now I use Isaac’s eight libraries as a base for engaging with residents and as a venue for hosting workshops with artists.

Can you share a memorable story from your time in libraries?

In September last year, I engaged the artist Walter Stahl to conduct drawing workshops in Moranbah’s library. Walter drew a three-metre long outline of a crocodile on a paper scroll and encouraged the participants (children and adults) to create their own Legend of Croqland by colouring or drawing within it. The rapt expressions on children’s faces as they created were wonderful to see.

What do you love most about libraries?

That they now are vibrant and alive spaces – no longer quiet; usually humming with activity!

What do you think libraries need to do next?

Stay alert to the possibilities provided by advances in technology.

If you were a library manager what would be the number one thing you would do?

Apply for funding to acquire musical instruments for patrons to use in the library (we’d need a soundproof space of course!).