Australian Library and Information Association

The 2024 Australian School Library Survey Report has now been launched. Softlink conducts the Australian School Library Survey each year to explore the significant trends and issues school libraries are facing. The latest findings show that school libraries continue to be essential for student success, yet face significant funding and staffing challenges. 🔹 51% of school library staff feel their budget is inadequate 🔹 52% believe their library is understaffed 🔹 56% report high student engagement School libraries play a vital role in literacy, digital learning, and research skills, but without proper investment, their ability to support students is at risk. Read the full report and and help strengthen advocacy for these essential services within our school communities. 👉 https://buff.ly/4gV20nP

TAFE Queensland is seeking a Manager to shape the future of the TAFE Queensland Library Network by developing innovative strategies that enhance resource accessibility and support academic success. In this role you will lead a dedicated team, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages continuous improvement and professional growth. This position also involves managing budgets, implementing cutting-edge technologies, and driving initiatives that align with TAFE Queensland’s vision and goals. 🔹 Ongoing, full time 🌎 South-East Queensland (travel may be required across TAFE Queensland regions) 🗓️ Applications close Sunday 16 March Find out more 👉 https://buff.ly/dDWStcn

Curious about the diverse roles of Library Technicians? Join us for ALIA WALT: Tech Talk 2025! Meet library technicians from school, special and public libraries as they share their experiences in a panel discussion. Perfect for aspiring library technicians, with a Q&A session to answer all your questions. Tea & coffee provided. 📅 Tuesday, 25 March 2025 ⏰ 6:15pm - 7:45pm AWST 📍 Great Southern Room, State Library of WA Cost: ALIA Members: FREE (gold coin donation) Non-Members: $22 Learn more and register here 👉 https://buff.ly/Sp6Qukj

A final call to register for ALIA Island's Libraries for Good event. This will involve special guest lightning talks, followed by a panel discussion and have you thinking about the Tasmanian library sector in new ways. Cost ALIA Members - FREE Non-Members - $22 🗓️ FRIDAY, 14 Mar 2025 🕐 5:30pm AEDT 📍 The UTAS IMAS building, Hobart Register here 👉 https://buff.ly/A64dAX8

ALIA Info Online 2025 Keynote Spotlight Day Two: GLAMR, Culture and Climate Change. Join us for this keynote panel featuring Indigenous and Pacific early-career professionals, sharing perspectives on climate change impacts affecting their communities and cultures. Panelists: Malietasi Leah Bulu - Save the Children's NextGen Youth Ambassador from Vanuatu, advocating for climate justice across Australia. Sana Saleem - Pacific Librarian at Unitec (Auckland) with expertise in Pacific indigenous knowledge and member of LIANZA's Climate Action Committee. Yanti Ropeyarn - Senior Specialist at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Data Archives, bringing Indigenous perspectives. Register now to secure your place 👉 https://buff.ly/tRFLjFT

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS), previous NSS author Lucinda Gifford, reflects on her experience: “Having my book Chicken Divas chosen for National Simultaneous Storytime has been the highlight of my career. Of course 2020 was the first year of COVID but – rather than being discouraged – teachers, librarians, authors, educators and families embraced the 'diva sparkle', in a celebration of song, dance and dressing up.” “There's something for everyone to enjoy. Fun resources also encourage creativity and make the event extra accessible.” Learn more and register for NSS 2025 here 👉 https://buff.ly/Sgs1B6E

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS), previous NSS author Lucinda Gifford, reflects on her experience: “Having my book Chicken Divas chosen for National Simultaneous Storytime has been the highlight of my career. Of course 2020 was the first year of COVID but – rather than being discouraged – teachers, librarians, authors, educators and families embraced the 'diva sparkle', in a celebration of song, dance and dressing up.” “There's something for everyone to enjoy. Fun resources also encourage creativity and make the event extra accessible.” Learn more and register for NSS 2025 here 👉 https://buff.ly/Sgs1B6E

It's a fairly tumultuous time in the world, and the library and information services sector is not immune from changes and challenges. Indeed we are central to some of the biggest issues of the day, from reliable information to inclusive communities. In this challenging landscape it was fantastic to be last week to be able to meet with our very close colleagues, Simon Polson at National & State Libraries Australasia (NSLA) and Jane Angel from the Council of Australasian University Librarians. The Australian library and information sector has worked collaboratively and closely for decades, and the continuing strong relationships mean that we are in a very good place to rise to contemporary challenges. #LibrariesTransform #LibrariesChangeLives Pictured, L-R, Simon Polson, Jane Angel, me, Zola Maddison, ALIA CEO Cathie Warburton and Amy Walduck AALIA

ALIA Info Online 2025 Keynote Spotlight Day One: Building a Foundation for Indigenous Librarianship in Australia Join Dr. Kirsten Thorpe and Dr. Lauren Booker for our opening day focused on "Indigenous Knowledges" on March 18. Their research establishes a crucial agenda for Indigenous-led library work in Australia, examining pathways that unite library practice with Indigenous knowledge systems, workforce development, and the integration of Indigenous protocols and Data Sovereignty principles. This vital presentation addresses how Australian libraries can create meaningful change through both institutional transformation and deep engagement with Indigenous communities' aspirations for sovereignty over their cultural heritage. Be part of this important conversation at our "Transformation & Disruption" conference running March 18-20, 2025. Register now to secure your place 👉 https://buff.ly/aAS18xx

📣 Reminder: Applications close soon! 📣 ALIA is offering two bursaries for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander library and information services (LIS) workers to attend the International Indigenous Librarians’ Forum (IILF) 2025 in Toronto, Canada! 🌏📚 This incredible opportunity will bring First Nations LIS workers together from around the world to connect, share stories, and exchange knowledge. Each bursary is valued at $5,500 and can be used for travel, accommodation, and other expenses. Thanks to the generosity of Gabrielle Watt, this bursary continues to support Indigenous LIS professionals in Australia. 🔹 Deadline: THIS SUNDAY, 2 March 2025 🔹 Apply now: https://buff.ly/3DbTEu4 🔹 Questions? Email [email protected]