Book Swap for Indigenous literacy

BENDIGONIANS can help the Indigenous Literacy Foundation donate culturally relevant books to children in remote communities around Australia by participating in an annual Great Book Swap.

To be held at Bendigo Library on Wednesday, 4 September at 11.15am, attendees can bring a book to trade for another in exchange for a gold coin donation, in an effort to raise $180,000 nationally – the vale of about 18,000 new books.

ILF Lifetime Ambassador and children’s author Andy Griffiths said the fundraiser is a really fun way to swap one of your pre-loved books for one that you might end up loving even more.

“And, even better, for the price of a gold coin you’ll be raising funds to ensure that kids in remote communities have the chance to fall in love with books and reading as well,” he said.

The foundation’s CEO Ben Bowen said the initiative is a way to celebrate reading locally, learn more about Indigenous languages and culture, while raising funds at the same time.

“It is important that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children can see themselves, their culture and languages reflected in the books they read,” he said.

“Having books that share local stories in First languages, preserves and maintains Indigenous languages and culture, as well as builds pride, identity and strengthens a sense of belonging, confidence and wellbeing.

“We thank Bendigo Library for their support. Every $10 will gift a book into the hands of a child living in remote Indigenous communities.”