Library makeover inspires a fun new way of reading

The Caboolture Library has undergone a makeover with a new fun fair-themed children’s area to ignite imaginations and further encourage a love of reading.

At the heart of the space is a sparkling lit up tree with comfy built-in ottomans, bookshelves and storage, as well as a tent-themed reading nook, tractor with book box storage trailer, comfy cushions and more hale-bay ottomans.

The fun fair-theme also continues on the walls, with bright colours to attract the attention of kids and adults, which compliments the ticket booth façade, bunting and other carnival graphics.

The Traditional Owners have also been honoured with a snake pattern graphic on the glass.

Acting Mayor Jodie Shipway says the new look is a hit with locals.

“The enhanced space pays homage to Caboolture’s status as a thriving town with its own distinct rural identity, taking inspiration from one of the most highly-anticipated events on the calendar - the Caboolture Show,” Cr Shipway said.

“Visitors can really engage with the space through lots of fun, interactive elements, but of course it also provides nooks for reading.

“It also includes sensory and tactile elements and is accessible to children and carers of all abilities, as Council continues its mission to become the most accessible in Southeast Queensland.

“It’s a really beautiful place to play, discover new things or simply curl up with a book, and I know the local community and visitors alike will enjoy it for many years to come.

“Council is focused on delivering quality, contemporary children’s spaces that inspire creativity, and an eagerness to explore the library collection - and this is no exception.”

A successful launch

The new fun fair-theme was unveiled to the community in late March, with plenty of people in attendance keen to see the changes.

“More than 1,200 people flocked to The Hub to check out the space at its launch on 20 March, and the response from the community was fantastic,” Cr Shipway says.

“More than 380 books were borrowed on launch day, and we had over 100 new and re-registering library members sign up, which is wonderful to see.

The play space launch party continued outside at Caboolture Town Square, with a new Outdoor Pop Up Play Space, First 5 Forever play zones, a free sausage sizzle by Rotary Club of Caboolture, live music by DJ Steve’s Disco Parties, and an ice-cream van by Ice Cream 4 Me.

Division 3 Councillor Adam Hain says it is wonderful to see local businesses come together for such a successful community event.

“That’s what our new Caboolture Made campaign is all about - uniting to showcase why Caboolture is such a great place to live, work, play, and do business,” Cr Hain says.

“By investing in fantastic new facilities like the library play space, Council is working to attract visitors and new business to the area, as well as boosting the already energised local economy and the community who are proud to call Caboolture home.

“This community has already shown how resilient it is by bouncing back from the recent flood disaster to put on a great event in the heart of the town just a few weeks on.

“Having so many people come out and support them and explore the area is so encouraging, and I am proud to back the success of businesses in our own backyard.”