News & Blog

News

"At the library I am label free"

Friday 28 January 2022

A local social worker shared with us the heart-warming story of a young man she works with who is experiencing homelessness.

The man had just become a library member, before which he’d never stepped foot into a library. Upon joining, he was thrilled to discover that he could access Kanopy through his library membership, enabling him to watch movies for free. 

That week, he returned to the library a further three times. When his social worker asked him why, he explained he felt free of judgement coming into this space. 

When he visits other spaces, it is because of a 'label'. For example, at the employment agency he is ‘unemployed’, at the housing agency he is ‘homeless’, Centrelink because he needs help to access benefits or attending the food bank is because he is ‘hungry due to experiencing poverty’. 

He comes to the library and is label-free. Like any other member of the public, he is simply accessing the many available resources.

The social worker reported that she had never before considered the library as a resource to help her clients achieve their goals and tap into the many varied benefits.

Geelong Regional Libraries strives to reach out and engage with people experiencing vulnerability in our community. Everyone is welcome at the library. 

Not a library member? Sign up for your free membership now. 

Back to news

You may also like...

News

Upcoming public holiday closures

The upcoming Geelong Cup and Melbourne Cup public holidays will affect different libraries on different days. See what's open and when.

News

Libraries closed for AFL grand final public holiday

A friendly reminder to our customers that all libraries are closed for the public holiday on Friday 26 September.

News

Expressions of interest: Children's & youth events at the library

Calling all creatives, community groups and organisations - we're seeking expressions of interest for engaging children and youth events in 2026.

News

Introducing our Library Plan 2025–2029

Following extensive consultation with staff, community and partners, we are proud to launch our new Library Plan 2025–2029.

News

Win tickets to see Looking for Alibrandi at Geelong Arts Centre

Here's your chance to win a family pass to Geelong Arts Centre production of Looking for Alibrandi.

New makerspace - Djilaga Makers Room - at Biyal-a Armstrong Creek library interior. Equipment visible through open door News

Makerspace now open at Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library

Exciting times - the makerspace at Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library is officially open to the community!