How to give back to your community using new food library
Date published: 23 February 2021
There is a new, easy and innovative way for Townsville locals to give back to their community designed by Townsville CityLibraries users – all it takes is dropping off a few groceries at your local library.
The CityLibraries Aitkenvale food library is the first of what organisers are hoping will be many food libraries across the city, providing a chance to give and take non-perishable food items as needed.
Mayor Jenny Hill said it was a fantastic initiative.
“Libraries are all about sharing resources for free, and I’m really proud of the team at CityLibraries for pushing the boundaries on that and setting up a food library where visitors can give and take food for free,” Cr Hill said.
“The idea behind the food library is simple – visitors can drop off any non-perishable food items at the library or pick up anything they might need at home. It’s a system that allows community members to support each other while also being discreet and dignified.”
Cr Hill said the food library had been eagerly embraced during its first three months.
“The food library at CityLibraries Aitkenvale was set up in December and has absolutely taken off. People are donating plenty of items, and people who use the library who need the food have been able to put that food to good use,” she said.
“Above our food library we have a beautiful message wall where people have shared how they feel about the project. The amount of support that it’s getting is just incredible, and I hope we see that support continue to grow.”
She said the next step was to expand the food library concept into other venues and suburbs.
“We have staff members at CityLibraries Aitkenvale who would be more than happy to meet with community members to discuss how to set up more food libraries,” she said.
“But you don’t have to set up your own food library to contribute. Even something as small as offering some tinned, canned, dried or packet food to donate at CityLibraries Aitkenvale would go a long way.
“Hopefully we can continue to work together as a community to make the food library grow and to keep food on the tables of those who need it most in our neighbourhoods.”
