“Libraries are all about access.”
The Modern Library
If you haven’t been to your local library in a while, it may be a surprise to what you remember. Gone are the days of silent book browsing. Libraries in our region are all about access.
Access can be a broader term than many of us imagine. We may think of doorways wide enough for a wheelchair, or ramps as an alternative to stairs. Libraries are hubs of information, and their very purpose is to make that information as accessible to as many people as they can.
To support this, all South Australian libraries offer free WiFi and computer access. In the Barossa, each library also has an accessible computer, with specialised keyboards, screens set up for ease of viewing and headphones available.
In the Barossa, our libraries are continuously growing to meet community needs and create greater access for everyone, supporting social inclusion, learning and skills development along with access to stories and information.
Collections
Collections are the range of items available to borrow from the library. In the Barossa, this naturally includes books, however there is also an extensive collection of DVDs available, along with as large-print books and audiobooks (which are available on CDs or via the “Libby” app on phone or computer). Beyond these, there are also selections of dyslexia-friendly books, graphic novels for all ages and magazines, amongst other items.
Available free of cost, these collections make stories and learning more accessible and available to those who may have difficulty with reading a traditional book.
Activities and Programming
Libraries frequently offer programs to the public, ranging from offering a space to local groups and clubs, to structured library-run programs at scheduled times. Popular programs in the Barossa include a monthly boardgame night and a collection of weekly children’s activities, which can be viewed here.
Nuriootpa library works with an Occupational Therapist and Speech Pathologist to develop children’s programs. There are also sensory toys available during groups, as well as tents for children to withdraw to if they’re becoming overwhelmed; this is an ever evolving and adapting space.
Reaching out to the library for a chat about what they can offer children with specialised needs is a great option for families in our region.
Individual technology and computer sessions are also available by appointment at Nuriootpa library twice a week, and at Mount Pleasant library one Thursday a month, supporting people to develop skills and understanding of technology.
Volunteering
A popular place for volunteering, libraries welcome diverse people into their teams and offer an array of tasks to suit the needs and interests of their people. For those with disability-related needs, libraries can be an accommodating space to volunteer, offering a wide range of tasks and options, including supporting with behind-the-scenes for those who find social elements challenging or overwhelming.
Volunteering for those with disabilities is a developing space at our Barossa libraries.
Access and Home Services
All South Australian state libraries are a part of the “OneCard network”. This provides access to any library in South Australia with a single card, offering enormous access and flexibility in borrowing and returning items.
If you are unable to get a copy of an item at your local library, they can order it through the network, so you can borrow and return it without having to visit a different library. OneCard is unique to South Australia.
For some people, though, attending any library can be difficult. In these cases, Nuriootpa library offers a Home Library service. With drop off and pick up once per month, a selection of items based on your interests can be made by the library team, or you can pick the specific items you would like. More information on home library can be found here.
Meeting Community Needs
Our Barossa libraries are continuously evolving and adapting as they become aware of the community needs, striving to create a deeper level of access. In support of this goal, the Barossa libraries are collaborating with Dementia Australia to become a dementia-friendly space, and with Disability Access Inclusion Group to develop access maps. These in-progress efforts show the dedication of our local libraries to providing for everyone in the community.
