Every day, in so many ways, libraries change lives – and Hobsons Bay Libraries' latest book and exhibition Turning the Page tells the unique stories of how libraries positively impact people who live, work or play in Hobsons Bay.
Arts, Culture and Tourism portfolio holder Councillor Colleen Gates said Turning the Page, being launched on Thursday 24 October, demonstrates how central libraries are to the community.
"The days of walking into a library, choosing a book and having a return date stamped onto a library card may have passed, but libraries have never been more important for bringing people together," said Cr Gates.
"The way our public libraries are used is perfectly demonstrated in our new Turning the Page book where library users were asked how the library had changed their lives.
"The simple but powerful question generated a wide range of responses and we can't wait to share the outcome with the people of Hobsons Bay."
Cr Gates said the community embraced the libraries and all that they offer.
"Hobsons Bay Libraries have the fourth highest rate of active library membership in the state, welcoming almost 650,000 visitors over the last 12 months who borrowed more than 535,000 items," said Cr Gates.
"Libraries are more than just the books that line the many shelves. They serve as classrooms, art galleries, boardrooms, music recording studios, tech labs, study spaces, and so much more.
"Libraries are increasingly becoming a space to host engaging and thought-provoking author talks, workshops and story-telling.
"Upcoming event Writers in Conversation: Democracy is taking place at the Newport Community Hub on Wednesday 23 October at 6.30pm. Come and join us to witness and take part in what will be a very interesting conversation."
Writers in Conversation will feature a discussion about current state of democracy in Australia with Richard Evans, former Federal Member of Parliament and Joel Deane, journalist, speechwriter and author of Catch and Kill: The politics of power.
