Maitland libraries receive $9,900 grant to support community cohesion
- intouch Magazine
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Maitland City Council has received a $9,900 Community Cohesion Grant to deliver a range of library programs designed to connect and support people across the Maitland Local Government Area.
The funding, provided through the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) and the Department of Home Affairs’ Office for Social Cohesion, will facilitate six programs delivered by Maitland libraries from January to April 2026.
As part of this initiative, Maitland libraries join 115 public and 10 university libraries nationwide delivering more than 750 programs for families, seniors, young people and those at risk of social isolation.
The Maitland programs focus on building social connections, developing practical skills and creating inclusive spaces for people from diverse backgrounds. The program includes:
Photography workshops (SLR and mobile phone) for adults, seniors, young people and people with disability, with participants able to submit work for the Walls That Talk exhibition in April.•Around the World Storytime, celebrating global stories and cultures for families, young children and culturally and linguistically diverse participants.
Creative Corner arts and craft sessions across all four library branches for adults, seniors, people with disability and culturally diverse participants.
Stitching and mending workshops for adults, culturally and linguistically diverse participants and university students.
Zine-making workshops for young people aged 18 to 24, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Silent Reading Parties for all ages, offering inclusive social spaces for quiet reading and connection.
Maitland City Council Coordinator Community Participation Erin Pascall said the grant allows Council's libraries to reach groups who may otherwise feel isolated.
"These programs provide practical ways for people to connect and engage in ways that suit them," Ms Pascall says.
“This funding allows us to expand our programs to reach more people; whether that’s through a photography workshop, a storytime celebrating different cultures, or a silent reading party. It’s all about building a stronger, more connected Maitland.”
The Community Cohesion Grant enables libraries nationwide to deliver place-based programs that build stronger, more resilient communities by promoting inclusion and social connection.
ALIA CEO Cathie Warburton said the initiative provides valuable support for the important work that libraries do connecting individuals and communities.
“Libraries are increasingly becoming go-to hubs for community connection and are safe places that individuals and groups can gather for assistance, support and to foster friendships.
“Libraries, councils and universities have jumped at the opportunity to be involved in this initiative, and we are thrilled to have participating libraries in major cities as well as regional and remote areas,” said Ms Warburton.
Registrations for the programs are now open. For full details and to register for upcoming programs, visit mait.city/CommunityCohesion
