From Wyalkatchem to Western Downs, The LBW Trust, in partnership with Friends of Library Australia, has supported 258 projects regional libraries in communities of fewer than 20,000 people.
For many people in small communities, the local library is their safe “third place.” A “third place” is a social environment separate from the two usual social environments of home (“first place”) and the workplace (“second place”).
Libraries in remote areas serve as essential community hubs where people can gather, learn, and connect. The grants fund a wide variety of projects that help these libraries continue their essential roles in learning, connection and community building.
Four Groups have benefited from The LBW Trust Grants
Under 18’s
Under 18 includes infants, toddlers, and all school aged children and teenagers e.g. Lego and robotics, after school club materials.
Over 60’s
Over 60 includes senior citizens and the older patrons of public libraries e.g. iPads for digital literacy and accessible furniture.
Specific Group
The specific group is children with learning disabilities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples e.g. EAL classes and technology for remote education.
Community
This group supports the entire community e.g. free programming, increasing resources the library can offer.
Types of Grants Awarded
2021
2022
2023
2024
Program Experience
Program Resources
Education Technology
Computer Hardware
Program/experience: from science fairs to cooking classes, this includes any activity the library organised for their community.
Physical resources: such as books, furniture and prizes for competitions to engage the community and meet their needs.
Educational technology: including robots, VR sets and accessories to computers that are used for education and learning.
Computer hardware: any kind of computer, iPad, tablet, or accessory (like an iPad stand or charging station).
Dive deeper into The LBW Trust’s Support for Country Australian Libraries
Flourishing Colac Library Garden
The Colac Library garden was revitalised in 2023 with a $1500 National Backyard Cricket Grant, fostering community engagement and educational
The LBW Trust Strengthening Rural Australia
78 country libraries scattered across regional, rural, and remote Australia were awarded much-needed funding through The LBW Trust’s 2023 National