From Saturday 22 August, South Australian children can step into Little Library, a free, inclusive space at the State Library of South Australia designed entirely for little hands, little eyes and big imaginations.
Located on the ground floor of the Spence Wing on North Terrace, Little Library brings together play-based learning, story-led activities and engaging programs where young visitors can explore, discover and grow. It was made possible through a $2 million investment from the South Australian Government’s Arts Investment Fund.
What families will find inside
The space has a distinct playful aesthetic featuring bold colours and bespoke artworks from Adelaide-based creatives Carlo Jensen, Andrew Joyner and Lawson Dodd. It was designed by global experience design agency Art Processors and built by South Australian construction company Chappell Builders.
Created in partnership with the City of Adelaide Library, Little Library offers a curated collection of books for young readers, borrowing services, hands-on activities and an evolving program of events designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Kaurna language and storytelling
Little Library has been developed in collaboration with Kaurna Warra Pintyanthi and the Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music at Adelaide University to incorporate elements of the Kaurna Songbook, creating opportunities for children and families to engage with Kaurna language, culture and storytelling.
State Library of South Australia Director Megan Berghuis said the space was designed to support the diverse literacy levels of South Australian children and share local stories that celebrate the places, people and perspectives of South Australia.
“We’ve worked closely with the Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music and Kaurna Warra Pintyanthi at Adelaide University to incorporate elements of the Kaurna Songbook into Little Library, connecting generations and fostering a sense of belonging through the stories that make us,” she said.
Opening weekend celebrations
To celebrate the opening, free activities will be running throughout the State Library on:
- Saturday 22 August: 10am to 5pm
- Sunday 23 August: 12pm to 5pm
Premier Peter Malinauskas said: “Learning to read is one of life’s most important skills but it’s also important to experience joy in reading and books. We are proudly supporting the Little Library which will help do just that, creating an environment to spark and foster a lifelong love of reading and books for South Australian children.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Arts Kyam Maher added: “This is a space that makes literacy feel like an adventure, and that spirit is at the very heart of our commitment to investing in South Australia’s arts and cultural institutions for generations to come.”
For more information about Little Library, opening hours and activities:
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