This week it’s all about books and libraries in Campbelltown: Tonight is the official opening of the new location of the Campbelltown City Library in Downtown Plaza.
This morning, another library also had its official opening. The A-B Street Library may not be as big as the city library, but its role is the same: spread the habit of reading books.
This morning in the community centre in Surrey Street, Minto, the 17th A-B library was officially launched (pictured above).
Campbelltown Councillor Ash Rahman, one of the founders of A-B Street Library, along with Kamal Pasha, in 2020, declared the aim of the not for profit organization was 100 sites across Campbelltown.
“With the Campbelltown City Council’s support, we are excited to expand our library project across the LGA in collaboration with local organizations, bringing even more opportunities for learning and community engagement.’’
Also in attendance this morning were deputy mayor Karen Hunt and Councillor Masood Chowdhury, along with members of local multicultural groups.
Since 2020, A-B Street Library has installed libraries in Macquarie Fields, Glenfield, Ingleburn, Minto, Minto Heights, Macquarie Links, Campbelltown, Airds, and Bow Bowing, among others.
Their little libraries have also reached thousands of people in the community via participation in events like the Campbelltown Book Trail, Nazrul Joyonti cultural event, and book launches.
The 17th is a partnership between A-B Street Library and the NSW Council for Pacific Communities, who also operate out of Surrey Street centre.
A-B Street Library has already been formally recognized and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Campbelltown City Council, which provided funding for library number 17.
Most of the libraries are hosted on private properties, with today’s launch expanding the outlets which enjoy high traffic numbers.
If you’d like to donate books or arrange a swap at one of the A-B Street Library sites, please contact Kamal on 0430 012 559 or Ash on 0433 509 852.