5 Minutes with Gay from Barcaldine Public Library

Gay from Barcaldine recently visited State Library of Queensland, and we asked her a few questions about her visit.

Above: Gay on her visit to the State Library of Queensland

How was your visit to State Library?

Visiting State Library gives you a greater perception of the enormity of the library and its services.  It’s not just about borrowing books. It’s good to talk over the phone but meeting face to face with all the staff was the highlight of the visit.  I’ve learnt a lot which I can take back to Barcaldine Library.

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

I’ve lived in Barcaldine for 30 years and was a library member before I applied for the job. I’ve always loved reading and thought the job would suit me.  I was in retail for 20 years and thought my retail experience would help me promote the library.

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

When I held my first school holiday activity and the library was bursting at the seams with children!

What do you love most about libraries?

What don’t I like? There’s everything to love. It’s a lot different to what I expected. It’s a lot more than just knowing about books and authors. I never thought I’d be singing nursery rhymes in the corner!  In any day I can be a kid one moment and an historian the next.

What do you think libraries need to do next?

Things are changing – libraries are changing. They are modern and technologically advanced by keeping up with people’s way of life. That’s the inspiration. We offer a range of services the same as the city libraries.

If you had unlimited resources what would be the number one thing you would do?

Build a new library with bigger space and employ another person to welcome a wider audience. With another person on staff we could plan school programs, Storytime, adult book club, history talks, workshops etc. without relying on volunteers.

All Queensland library staff are encouraged to visit State Library on your next visit to Brisbane.  To arrange a visit and meet with us contact ikc.rlq@slq.qld.gov.au

About the author: Karen Hind is Librarian, Public Library Partnerships, State Library of Queensland.