In May 2025, State Library of Queensland and the Queensland Brain Institute (University of Queensland) jointly hosted the Now and for their futures: Libraries brain building in the early years national forum to explore the impact public libraries can have in supporting strong foundations in the early years. PLV CEO Angela Savage and Project Officer Christine Peters attended the forum.
This Libraries and Information Week is themed To Read or Not To Read: Literacy Matters – platforming the important role of public libraries in supporting families to talk, read, sing and play with their babies and young children every day.
A Statement of Commitment for a National Alliance for Libraries and the Early Years, was developed in collaboration with 80 sector leaders, researchers, philanthropists and practitioners at this recent event.
This Commitment aims to unite a national network of 1,400 libraries and their partners in a powerful pledge:
A library for every child. Together we can ensure every child can thrive no matter where they live.
It acknowledges not all children have equitable access to the resources, relationships, and environments they need to thrive. As trusted community hubs, libraries and their partners are uniquely placed to deliver positive, place-based prevention work with families every day.
Also published is the Forum Evaluation which provides an overview of the two-day program, discussion highlights, independent findings, and recommendations that will guide the alliance through the next steps.
Promote to your partners and pledge your commitment alongside Australian Library and Information Association, Australian Public Libraries Association, National and State Libraries Australasia, University of Queensland and Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth and join the National Alliance for Libraries the Early Years.
Libraries are ready. We have a strong vision and a ‘can-do’ mindset, poised always to act for our communities. We are a movement that sustains and stretches for a sustainable future for all – no child is left behind.