Community library with a difference

A NEW chapter in community connection has begun in Portland, with a local family bringing the joy of reading to their street through a beautifully named Little FREE Library, Cats and Chapters.

Supported by United Way Glenelg and registered with Street Library Australia, the library has been thoughtfully created by “Emma”, with a special focus on books for older children and adults.

The initiative comes at a critical time.

Research shows that reading for pleasure declines significantly as children grow older, with fewer than half of Australian children aged 9–14 reading regularly for enjoyment.

Creating easy, free access to books within the community is one way to help turn this trend around.

Located in a front yard 4 New Street Portland, opposite Ambulance Victoria Station, and open to all, Cats and Chapters invites passersby to take a book, leave a book, and share stories with one another, no memberships or due dates required.

Executive officer Nicole Carr said the initiative reflects the power of simple, community-led ideas.

“Something as small as a street library can have a big impact,” Ms Carr said. “It creates opportunities for children to discover books in their everyday environment and helps build a culture of reading within our community.”

Street Libraries are a growing movement across Australia, offering a welcoming and accessible way for communities to share books and connect with one another.

They operate on trust, generosity and the shared belief that stories should be available to everyone.

Community members are encouraged to stop by, explore the collection, and contribute a book if they can.

Because sometimes, all it takes is one book to spark a lifelong love of reading.

Follow Cats & Chapter Street Library on Facebook to explore what books are on offer each week.