A Street Library has been unveiled at Cowra’s Early Childhood Services Centre (Carinya), offering adults and children alike a place to exchange books and nurture their love of reading.
Located on the Carinya fence line, the Street Library was funded by the local Lions Club and constructed by the Men’s Shed to continue the work of Cowra’s resident ‘Book Bug’, Councillor Nikki Kiss.
Centre Manager Libby Ewing-Jarvie said Cr Kiss and her ‘Book Bug’ alter ego were the catalyst for the community-led project.
“The Book Bug was invited to do a guest reading for this year’s National Simultaneous Storytime, and she did such a great job that it sparked the idea of having a Street Library accessible at Carinya,” Ms Ewing-Jarvie said.
“When we think about the development of a child, their ability to communicate, relate to situations, and connect with different dynamics and characters, often that comes from being given or read a book that provides knowledge, context, and the opportunity to understand they’re not alone in the world.
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“Children’s books are one of the greatest assets a community can offer, and making them accessible to our tiny humans, as we like to call them, you really can’t understate the importance of that.”
On Tuesday, Cr Kiss was joined by Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke, to unveil the community asset, with excited readers rushing to be among the first to use the book exchange.
Ms Cooke congratulated all involved in the project and emphasised how the region’s early childhood educators consistently go above and beyond to give children the best start in life.
“Our educators play such a vital role in shaping young minds, and this project is a perfect example of their creativity and care,” Ms Cooke said.
“Initiatives like this don’t just build literacy, they build community, imagination, and a lifelong love for learning. It’s a credit to Carinya, the Lions Club, the Men’s Shed, and of course the wonderful Book Bug, for turning a joyful idea into something truly lasting.”
