Turning pages and building connections with new street libraries

Lifeview’s newest community initiative has officially taken flight, with street libraries now open at both Willow Wood and Argyle Court. 

Built, painted and now lovingly maintained by residents, the “take one, share one” libraries are already proving to be a hit with neighbours and passers-by who have begun stopping in to browse, borrow and contribute.

The project unfolded over several weeks and brought residents together in a series of hands-on sessions, including three dedicated building workshops, a group painting afternoon, and the appointment of volunteer resident librarians to manage stock. 

Beyond the joy of reading, the libraries have created a new way for Lifeview homes to connect with their surrounding communities. 

At Argyle Court, resident librarian Davina was thrilled to contribute one of her personal favourites, What Brings the Night by Mark Billingham, adding it to the library’s first collection.

She hoped that someone else would enjoy it as much as she had.

“I like murder mysteries and detectives. I enjoyed that one, it was really cool,” she said.

Meanwhile, at Willow Wood, librarian Terri had her eye on one particular title that made its way into the mix, the biography of Elon Musk. 

She laughed that she was surprised it had made its way into the library and admitted she would “likely swap that out pretty quickly if no one else had”.

The libraries are already being regularly checked, reviewed and refreshed by their resident caretakers, ensuring a steady rotation of mystery, memoir, adventure, romance, thrillers and more.

Stop by and check out a book today.

If you would like further information on the Lifeview community libraries, email marketing@lifeview.com.au

Do you have some quality, secondhand books you would like to contribute to the library? Email us at marketing@lifeview.com.au and we’ll be in touch.