Public libraries, IKCs and storm season

Queensland’s extreme weather regularly affects communities across the state. With long periods of widespread rainfall and flooding in December 2024 for north Queensland, and March - May 2025 across Western Queensland, several communities were inundated including Wujal Wujal, Stonehenge, Jundah and Windorah surpassing 1974 flood heights. The libraries and towns were isolated due to floodwaters and some are still in recovery. Many residents sought out the local library or Indigenous Knowledge Centre (IKC) as a safe place to be during the inundation. 

Libraries were among the many facilities impacted, and most have recovered. The Wujal Wujal IKC for example, became the disaster recovery centre and has been relocated as their original building has become the council officed during reconstruction. In Thargomindah, the Bulloo Shire Council also took up space in the library when their offices were flooded. The library has reopened in a reduced capacity and hosts the children’s program at the golf club now.

Even though some library facilities in flooded towns may not have been inundated, power outages meant the lack of air conditioning caused mould outbreaks in the collections, and periods of closures of several libraries. Ingham’s Hinchinbrook Shire Library recovery efforts involved mould removal, air quality testing, refurbishments, and the installation of improved ventilation and climate control systems to reduce future risk. In June, the community celebrated the library reopening. 

"I've always said the library's one of the quiet achievers in our community," Mayor Ramon Jayo said. "It's not just shelves and silence anymore. It's where kids learn, families connect, and folks of all ages find something new to be curious about. "We've been through a tough patch with the floods but seeing the library back open with a schedule full of fantastic activities; it's a good feeling. It's a sign we're moving forward, together."

During storm season, public libraries and IKCs become places of refuge. As you prepare for storm season, make a visit to your local library of IKC to find out more.

State Library’s enduring partnership with local government delivers more than 325 public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) across Queensland. In every bustling city and town, libraries and IKCs are social, cultural and digital hubs that offer much more than you think.