Howard Library renovations to shine at Garden Party
A new outdoor area, themed garden beds, a storytime area and new signage are among the Howard Library renovations that will be showcased at a Garden Party on Tuesday, July 2.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the Garden Party will be held from 10am to midday and will celebrate the recent renovations, the school holidays and the ‘From Plant to Plate’ Seed Library Project.
“Our seed library provides a place where library members can visit, collect and exchange seeds. They are, where possible, organic, open-pollinated, and not genetically modified,” he said.
“Borrowers are encouraged to help us grow the Seed Library by harvesting seeds from mature plants and donating them back to the library to share with others in the community.
“Seeds are available in five categories: native plants, bush tucker, flowers, vegetables, and herbs; and are at all our library branches at Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Howard, Tiaro and Burrum Heads.”
Cr Seymour said the garden party would be a great school holiday event and would include a free BBQ, Errol the Frog, a jumping castle, free face painting and kids activities, plus seed library community partners including beekeepers and garden groups.
“We’re thrilled with the improvements as they not only enhance the functionality and appeal of the library but also create a welcoming space for the entire community,” he said.
“The renovation works included repositioning the entrance to improve accessibility, an outdoor seating and Storytime area, themed garden beds, external signage and an inclusive flexible space for library programs for all ages.”
Council has funded the most recent renovations at a cost of $170,000 and received a $75,000 COVID Works for Queensland grant from the Queensland Government for the first stage of the works undertaken in 2022.
Cr Michelle Byrne said the library now has a space for community programs which will include creative technologies such as label making and 3D printing.
“We understand how valuable the Howard Library is to the community and we look forward to the community using this facility to its fullest potential,” she said.
“If you’re not already a library member, the Garden Party is the perfect opportunity to become one. Everyone is welcome to attend on Tuesday, 2 July, from 10am to midday.
“Membership gives you access to a range of resources including books, DVDs, magazines, toys, eBooks, eAudiobooks, a free film streaming service, public computers, printing, scanning, and of course, the new seed library.”
Public libraries are a partnership between Local Government and the Queensland Government through State Library of Queensland, with the establishment of the Seed Library funded through a $50,000 Public Libraries Strategic Priorities Grant.
Find out more about the Seed Library at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/seedlibrary