Library play space a real showstopper

Published 31 March 2022

Caboolture Library Play Space.jpg

Roll up, roll up - The Caboolture Library Show has arrived in town!

Acting Mayor Jodie Shipway said the Caboolture library’s upgraded fun fair-themed children’s play is set to ignite imaginations and further encourage a love of reading.

“The enhanced space pays homage to Caboolture’s status as a thriving town with its own distinct rural identity, taking inspiration from one of the most highly-anticipated events on the calendar - the Caboolture Show,” Cr Shipway said.

“More than 1,200 people flocked to The Hub to check out the space at its launch on 20 March, and the response from the community was fantastic.

“Council is focused on delivering quality, contemporary children’s spaces that inspire creativity, and an eagerness to explore the library collection - and this is no exception.

“Visitors can really engage with the space through lots of fun, interactive elements, but of course it also provides nooks for reading.

“It also includes sensory and tactile elements and is accessible to children and carers of all abilities, as Council continues its mission to become the most accessible in Southeast Queensland.

“More than 380 books were borrowed on launch day, and we had over 100 new and re-registering library members sign up, which is wonderful to see.

“It’s a really beautiful place to play, discover new things or simply curl up with a book, and I know the local community and visitors alike will enjoy it for many years to come.”

At the heart of the space is a tree with comfy built-in ottomans, bookshelves and storage, with bright festoon lights sparkling from its trunk up to the ceiling.

The bright colour palette catches the eye and draws in both kids and adults alike, adding to the theme with its bunting, ticket booth façade and other carnival graphics, while a snake pattern graphic on the glass honours the Traditional Owners.

A tent-themed reading nook, tractor with book box storage trailer, comfy cushions and hay-bale ottomans wrap up the fun.

The play space launch party continued outside at Caboolture Town Square, with a new Outdoor Pop Up Play Space, First 5 Forever play zones, a free sausage sizzle by Rotary Club of Caboolture, live music by DJ Steve’s Disco Parties, and an ice-cream van by Ice Cream 4 Me.

Division 3 Councillor Adam Hain said it was wonderful to see local businesses come together for such a successful community event.

“That’s what our new Caboolture Made campaign is all about - uniting to showcase why Caboolture is such a great place to live, work, play, and do business,” Cr Hain said.

“By investing in fantastic new facilities like the library play space, Council is working to attract visitors and new business to the area, as well as boosting the already energised local economy and the community who are proud to call Caboolture home.

“This community has already shown how resilient it is by bouncing back from the recent flood disaster to put on a great event in the heart of the town just a few weeks on.

“Having so many people come out and support them and explore the area is so encouraging, and I am proud to back the success of businesses in our own backyard.”

To find out more about what’s coming up at Caboolture Library, visit www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/libraries/Home

To find out more about the Caboolture Made campaign and get involved, head to Caboolture Made - Moreton Bay Regional Council