Friends of Cairns Libraries

Friends of Cairns Libraries grows from strength to strength

Since the formation of "Friends of Cairns Libraries" (FOCL) in January 2004 the group has grown and the activities have expanded to include book sales, satellite libraries, a newsletter, participation in story times and much more.

Friends come from all walks of life, some are retired professionals, some new to the Cairns area, some are members of other Friends groups, but mostly they are lovers of libraries, literature, people and the arts.

They are a group of lively and generous residents who are keen to enhance the lifestyle of the community by supporting and developing the services and facilities of our libraries.

Friends are easily recognisable by their colourful tee shirts with newly designed Friends of Cairns Libraries logo.

Friends and the Homebound service

The Homebound service has expanded considerably due to the dedication of the Friends. Currently Friends deliver to individual Homebound Library members from Palm Cove in the North, to Babinda in the South. Some Friends also read aloud to customers with reading problems.

Our libraries are now established in Aged Care Facilities at Glenmead Aged Care Facility ( Redlynch), Masonic Care ( Whitfield), Coral Sea Gardens (Westcourt) and Bethlehem Home (Westcourt).

At some of these facilities Friends help residents select reading material and provide a much-needed outing. For some residents Friends operate a trolley service delivering books to residents each week.

Friends and Storytime

Some of the Friends have also been instrumental in the continuing success of the fabulous monthly children's Story time events and activities across all nine libraries. In many of the branches Friends design, organise and present the Story time events.

Friends and Library Booksales

Friends really enjoy assisting with the the libraries annual book sales. They help with set up and ensure that the stock is continually replaced during the sale.

National Friends Conferences

As a member of the Australian Friends of the Library group, members of FOCL may attend regular National Conferences.

Meet the author

In conjunction with our libraries the Friends of the Library host tours by local and visiting national and international authors.Watch this space for updates.

We would like to congratulate and thank our invaluable Friends for their marvellous contribution to the expansion of library services across the Cairns Region.

For further information contact Smithfield Branch Librarian, Sivan on 4044 3736.