Corio Library’s new branch librarian, Subha Simpson, wants to invite everyone in the community to get to know what the library service has to offer.
Subha started as branch librarian at Corio last August and is enthusiastically embracing the local community and planning for future opportunities to engage residents.
“It’s a busy library, with an average of 500 to 600 people coming in every day,” Subha said.
“Computer and wi-fi use is astronomical, which is great because it means we’re providing an important service for the local community. We know there are a lot of people in our area who don’t have computer or internet access at home and we’re happy to support them.”
Subha said the library aims to engage children from soon after birth and keep them coming back into adulthood.
“The babies come through the Maternal Child Health nurses who hold their sessions here,” Subha said. “They then move on to Toddler Time and Story Time. Once they start school we see them after school, on Saturdays and during holidays, when we often run special programs.”
Subha said the library aims to continue the life-long relationship by welcoming secondary and university students and helping with their study needs. Job seekers are regular visitors when updating and printing their resume, while adult learners, craft and general interest groups are also based there.
Subha leads seven staff at the library, including two specialist children’s librarians. She said she’s always looking for ways to involve the local community. “This is their space and we want them to take ownership, so please call in and talk to us about what you’d like to see here.”
Corio Library is open Monday to Saturday and is located in Cox Road, near the corner of Moa Street.