Rain, hail or shine public libraries and IKCs are serving Queensland communities

Queensland’s extreme weather regularly affects communities across the state. Public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) provide communities with free spaces to relax in aircon out of the blistering heat, somewhere dry to keep the kids busy on rainy days and provide resources such as scanners and computers to help you digitise copies of important documents or precious memories like photographs.  

Libraries are also increasingly stepping up during disasters - providing information, safe spaces, power, internet connectivity and being a centralised hub for support services. In addition, libraries and other cultural services can play a key role in community recovery through programming and services that provide opportunities for escape, to reflect and heal, reconnect, and build community spirit. 

Following rainfall and flooding in the past year, libraries and IKCs in some places were among the facilities impacted but due to the important role they play in communities, councils were quick to ensure they offered reduced or offsite services and worked to have spaces reopened.  

Following a period of closure, the community of Ingham celebrated the library reopening in June. Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor, Ramon Jayo said "I've always said the library's one of the quiet achievers in our community. 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." 

If the worst happens at your home and precious items have suffered damage due to water, mould or pests, State Library has information on how to salvage your important family items such as books, diaries, pictures, and photographs. Salvaging damaged collections | State Library of Queensland. 

Image: Cameron Laird Aerial view of flooded streets and houses, Townsville 4February 2019 John Oxley Library collection, State Library of Queensland 

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.