Bayside Libraries continue to be one of our most loved services year after year.
Loved for their books and special events, our libraries are also cherished for the way they bring people together, often when connection matters most.
Our libraries boast a collection of more than 255,300 books and e-resources, with more than 859,600 loans in 2025. Last year, Bayside libraries held 2127 events attended by 33,212 people.
Naomi and Janet were among them. They have formed a bond through meeting up at programmed library events.
Naomi is a regular at author talks and Book Chat discussion groups and rarely wanders the shelves looking for something specific. "I like to draw on the librarians' choices and their displays," she says. "That's how I discover what's new and interesting."
"We're good library friends," Naomi explains. "We don't socialise outside, but we meet through Book Chats and events." Janet puts it simply: we always turn up, look forward to catching up, and will save one another a seat."
For Naomi, that connection with people who share her interests began after migrating from South Africa to Bayside later in life to be closer to family. "At first I didn't have a network of friends," Naomi says. "The library became the place where I found connection."
What started as curiosity soon became routine. "Libraries are fascinating places full of amazing and interesting things, but what draws me most is the social connection," she said. "I want to be there as much as I can to enjoy and support what they do."
Janet's relationship with Bayside libraries stretches back decades further. A member for 76 years, she joined at age five. A retired psychologist, avid reader and aspiring writer, Janet volunteers with our Home Library, delivering books to people who can't visit in person.
"Our libraries are wonderful," she said. "They're accessible, there's always something happening, and the staff are delightful and supportive. If you had a bed there, I could live in the library."
