INCITE Magazine Volume 46 | Issue 2

Volume 46 | Issue 2

The Largest magazine for the library and information sector kangaroo ever captured : 7 1/2 ft. high, seen only in Barnum's Menagerie.

Page 1 nla.obj-657973587 National Library of Australia

Breaking barriers

How academic libraries can lead the open educational resources revolution

Cybersecurity in libraries

Keeping up with the librarians

A human-centric, AI-supported approach

One SA library’s fun and effective social media strategy

CONTENTS

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28

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Columns From the editor

4

From the president

5

Library stories: Iurgi Urrutia

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Researcher insights

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UNESCO Australian memory of the world: Shining a light on collections

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ALIA News Welcoming the ALIA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Expert Group

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Features Introducing ALIA’s newest Special Interest Group:

Strengthening school libraries: New national guidance from ALIA ACSL 17

Enterprise Information Management

Q&A: Adult Literacy Getting Started Kit

the open educational resources revolution

Opening windows (and doors) through digital literacy Sandra Ryan, FALIA: A tribute The 2024 ALIA Graphic Notables Lists INCITE is the magazine of the Australian Library and Information Association.

It presents perspectives on issues relating to library and information science. © ALIA 2025 Subscription enquiries incite@alia.org.au

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25

Breaking barriers: How academic libraries can lead 26

Benchmarking the balance of access: Reflections from a Churchill Fellow

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21

When the library found me

32

22

Cybersecurity in libraries: A human-centric, AI-supported approach

36

Keeping up with the librarians: How a reality TV show 24

Apart from fair dealing for the purposes of research or study, reproduction of this material in any form, for public or commercial use is prohibited without permission from the publisher. Contributors assert their moral rights to be identified as the authors of their works.

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influenced our social media strategy ALIA ABN 40 090 953 236 ALIA House, 9–11 Napier Close Deakin ACT 2600 PO Box 6335, Kingston ACT 2604 Ph: 02 6215 8222 enquiry@alia.org.au www.alia.org.au

Editor: Liz Bradtke incite@alia.org.au Design: Coretext www.coretext.com.au Advertising: Katrina Gee media@alia.org.au Events: events@alia.org.au

ALIA EXECUTIVE Cathie Warburton, CEO cathie.warburton@alia.org.au Kylie Fiddy, Chief Operating Officer & Company Secretary kylie.fiddy@alia.org.au Amy Walduck, Director of Partnerships & Events Trish Hepworth, Deputy CEO trish.hepworth@alia.org.au Liz Bradtke, Director Communications & Engagement liz.bradtke@alia.org.au

Cover: D. Ransom & Co., issuing body & Clay, Cosack & Co., printer.

(1870). Largest kangaroo ever captured: 7 1/2 ft. high, seen only in Barnum’s Menagerie.

Retrieved May 28 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj655800774.

Contents | INCITE Magazine 3

FROM THE EDITOR

By Liz Bradtke Editor

In my very first editor’s introduction back in March 2023, I described INCITE as not just a magazine, but also a conversation — a dialogue between ALIA and the sector about the stories, perspectives and voices that matter most to you. After all, this is your magazine, and the things you find important or exciting — what you think ALIA and your colleagues need to know — are the things we want to feature.

Since then, we’ve expanded the scope of INCITE to better reflect the depth and diversity of our profession and to keep that conversation fresh and relevant. We’ve introduced regular columns like ‘From the archive’, ‘Library stories’, ‘On our collections’, and — launching in this edition — ‘Researcher insights’. Each issue remains open to articles on any topic, and it’s been rewarding to see a wider range of stories submitted as a result. We’ve also featured more Q&A-style interviews and conversations with authors, practitioners and contributors from across the broader GLAM (galleries, libraries, archives, museums) sector, making the magazine as holistic and representative as possible.

Now, at the halfway point of 2025 and with our sights set firmly on how to keep evolving INCITE, I’d love to hear from you. What would you like to see more of? What could we do differently? You can send your ideas and feedback to incite@alia.org.au and we’ll use your input to help shape what INCITE becomes in 2026 and beyond.

And now to this edition. In ‘From the archive’, Roxanne Missingham takes us through the history of Australia’s UNESCO Memory of the World program and the documentary treasures it houses. ‘Library stories’ features an in-depth conversation with Iurgi Urrutia, outgoing convenor of ALIA Graphic and Comics Special Interest Group, whose passion for comics, literacy and community has helped reshape how libraries across the country engage with this powerful medium. In our newest feature, ‘Researcher insights’, we

showcase projects from an LIS practitioner, academic and PhD student to highlight the diverse types of evidence being developed across the library and information sector.

From ALIA, we have updates on some new policies to support school libraries and staff, developed by the Australian Coalition of School Libraries; a deep dive into the newest Special Interest Group, Enterprise Information Management; an introduction to the new members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Expert Group; and a chat with ALIA Adult Literacy Group about their brand new Getting Started Kit. Our feature stories take us through the open educational resources evolution in academic libraries; explore how to adopt a human-centric, AI-supported approach to cybersecurity; and reveal how a reality TV show inspired one savvy social media campaign.

We also hear from a recent Churchill Fellow on her research into collection security, and from the State Library of South Australia about its Being digital initiative. Rounding out this edition is a beautifully crafted piece that blends memoir and creative prose as the author, a recent arrival to Australia, reflects on how a local library became a vital point of connection, and a moving tribute to Sandra Ryan and her enduring contribution to the profession.

I hope you enjoy this edition of INCITE, and thank you in advance for bringing your ideas and suggestions to the table.

Liz Bradtke, Editor incite@alia.org.au

Acknowledgment of Country The Australian Library and Information Association acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to lands, waters, cultures and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and to Elders past and present.

Artwork: Richard Allan Jr. 4 INCITE Magazine | From the Editor

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Jane Cowell AALIA (DCP) ALIA President

Welcome to the second edition of INCITE for 2025 — and what an action-packed first half of the year it has been for ALIA and for our sector, with our community coming together in powerful and inspiring ways.

Back in March, ALIA Information Online was a huge success, attracting over 2,000 participants across three days of programming.

The feedback we received from attendees was resoundingly positive and will help inform future programs and events at ALIA. We were also delighted to see that 98% of those who attended are planning to revisit session recordings and over 89% expressed interest in returning in 2027, so it is clear that the appetite for connection, insight and industry leadership remains strong. A reminder that the recordings for all sessions are available for registrants until 21 August, so you still have time to catch up on anything you might have missed.

More recently, the 25th National Simultaneous Storytime brought The truck cat to 2,204,658 participants at 16,632 locations across Australia and the world — a simply astounding achievement. This was our first year partnering with Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing, and it was a true joy to see how libraries, classrooms, childcare centres, hospitals, carers and families celebrated the day — from creative costumes to community-wide storytimes to trucks real and constructed. This event continues to spotlight the vital role libraries play in keeping reading and literacy at the heart of our national conversation — especially for our youngest Australians.

Looking ahead, Library and Information Week 2025 builds on this momentum with the theme To Read or Not To Read: Literacy Matters.

The week will expand the conversation to include all types of literacies — digital, media, information and beyond — and the barriers that can prevent equitable access to reading. It’s a timely reminder that literacy is not just a foundational skill but a lifelong enabler, and that libraries remain essential in advocating for informed, literate and empowered communities.

Finally, I am pleased to share that that the Special Resolution to include an Independent Director on the ALIA Board was passed at the ALIA AGM in Perth last month. The inclusion of an Independent Director on the ALIA Board will enhance our governance by bringing in external expertise and broader perspectives, alongside our elected representatives.

All of these initiatives reflect the energy, adaptability and shared purpose that define our profession. The same can be said for the articles in this edition of INCITE, which showcase the ideas, innovations and impact being generated across the sector. As you read through, I hope you find inspiration in the work being done and consider sharing your own activities and research for a future edition of the magazine. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to shaping a future where access to information, literacy and learning continues to thrive.

Jane Cowell AALIA (DCP) ALIA President

Write for INCITE If you’d like to contribute to the September or December editions of INCITE, submit your story idea or get in touch at incite@alia.org.au.

INCITE is a platform for collaboration, a space to celebrate achievements, and a record of the ever-evolving role of libraries and information professionals. If you have a story to tell, we want to hear it.

From the President | INCITE Magazine 5

LIBRARY STORIES Iurgi Urrutia is a passionate advocate for comics, literacy and community engagement in the LIS sector. He has been the convenor of the ALIA Graphic and Comics Special Interest Group since 2019, overseeing some of the group’s most successful and popular initiatives including the ALIA Graphic Notables, the Creator Chats podcast series and the monthly new release round-ups.

Iurgi will soon step down from the convenor role to focus on new ventures, so we thought it was the perfect time to chat to him about his journey into libraries, the impact of the ALIA Graphic group, and what he sees as the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the profession today.

Library stories Iurgi Urrutia

‘Don’t pass up opportunity for growth (within reason!)’

ALIA: First, could you tell us about the first job you ever had?

IU: My first paid job was working for the Fantasy and Horror Film Festival in my home town. Donostia is a small city in the north of the Basque Country, and it has always invested a lot into art and culture programs.

I had been going to the festival for years as a fan of the genre and working for the festival was an incredible experience. There was a lot to prepare before the festival, as it wasn’t just film screenings. We had lots of international guests, actors, directors, producers ... I was in charge of calling them and making arrangements for their flights and accommodation.

The festival also had exhibitions and after screening parties. During the festival, we had to ensure the smooth running of all the events, the satisfaction of the festival guests and, of course, that they were present at the press conference and the screening of their movies. It was a small team that really punched above its weight, and I learned a lot about mentoring, working as a team, project management and customer service.

How did you find your way into the LIS workforce and what motivated you to do so?

When I was at university, I had to decide what to do after my Bachelor of Media Studies. It was hard to decide between teacher and librarian. I went with education and I was a teacher for a few years. Then, when I was in between jobs, I saw the opportunity to work at a library and I thought I should try it. I was enjoying the

6 INCITE Magazine | Library stories

classroom work and I enjoyed working with teenagers, but what if I was in the wrong career? It became very clear to me after a few weeks at Frankston Library that I had to go back to university and complete the Diploma of Information Management. I’ve never looked back. I think I’ve always been attracted to working in a team, serving the community and being involved with arts and culture. The library just brought out the best in me and allowed me to pursue my interests.

It also allows me to combine all the skills and knowledge I’ve gained from my background in media studies, education and information management.

You spent a number of years convening the ALIA Graphic and Comics Special Interest Group and have been instrumental in making that group one of the most prolific we have. Why was it important for you to take on this work?

I felt libraries could do better when it came to comics in their collections. I could see what was happening in North America and I thought we could replicate that here while also promoting and raising the profile of Australian creators and titles.

Raising the profile of comics in libraries was and is necessary because old prejudices die hard and there is a profound misunderstanding when it comes to this medium. For far too long, and still today, comics have been seen by many as less than art and less than prose. They’re often seen as visual candy for reluctant readers that they will, hopefully, outgrow to read ‘real’

LIBRARY STORIES

of all we’ve achieved as a group. A lot of work we do is invisible, but invaluable. For example, helping people who email us with requests for information on graphic novels about certain topics; developing relationships and partnerships with the Perth Comic Arts Festival and the American Library Association’s Graphic Novels and Comics Roundtable (GNCRT); and putting the Perth Comic Arts Festival in contact with the Toronto Comic Arts Festival.

Iurgi Urrutia Photo: Supplied

books. However, comics are multimodal texts and readers must use multiple literacies to decode them. That’s exactly the kind of literacy we need nowadays. Most of the texts we consume every day are multimodal and, thankfully, the school curriculum is placing more of an emphasis on these kinds of texts.

There are ample studies that show comics readers associate reading with pleasure and become lifelong readers, and it has also been shown that readers recall more of what they’ve read when they consume the same information in a comic, in contrast to prose, which is most likely due to the multimodal nature of comics.

We’re also very aware that we have really talented creators in Australia; however, they very often went under the radar and both library staff and patrons had no idea they were Australian. That’s why our Creator Chat series on our podcast focuses mostly on Australian creators and titles. We also highlight any new Australian comics for libraries in our monthly round-ups and we also created the ALIA Graphic Notables, with the aim of highlighting and celebrating the best Australian graphic novels of the year.

The idea was always to get a group of people who saw the same need to share our resources with the whole sector. I’m proud

What have been some of the highlights of your time as group convenor?

This has been one of the most beautiful and fulfilling experiences of my life. Creating the Special Interest Group was about raising the profile of comics and graphic novels in libraries and promoting Australian titles and creators, and it’s been incredible to see how well the group’s work has been received.

For example, we started the Notables a bit flippantly, but we’ve been getting better at it and creators have really embraced it.

Last year my wife and son attended the Oz Comic-Con in Melbourne and when they saw Mat Groom — a writer who has published with Marvel and Image Comics, among others — they were so happy to see that he had an ALIA Graphic Notables sticker on the comics he was selling. My wife mentioned to him that I was the convenor for the group, and she said that his eyes lit up and he was so happy and proud to receive that recognition from Australian librarians.

That definitely made my day and gave me the impulse to make the Notables even better this year.

Library stories | INCITE Magazine 7

LIBRARY STORIES And, just recently, I was told by a Canadian librarian that the creation of the group and our work has raised the profile of Australian comics creators and titles in North America.

She said more libraries and librarians in North America and in the GNCRT are aware of Australian creators and are buying those titles and promoting them in their book lists, thanks to our work. That’s fantastic, and again, it made my day.

But, at the end of the day, the most important thing is people and the biggest highlight is the committee itself. The ALIA Graphic group has become a second family to me. We’re all volunteers and we support each other, sharing resources, frustrations and laughs. It’s been incredible to be the convenor for five years.

Even though I will soon be stepping down as convenor, I will continue to be involved with the group, and I will still continue to produce the podcast as long as the group wants me to. I look forward to seeing how the group evolves with a different convenor.

How have your networks, both here and overseas, helped or shaped you in your career to date?

As a teacher, I learned how valuable and important it is to share resources and ideas — to collaborate. I wanted to bring that spirit of collegiality to my library work; and networking and building relationships has been absolutely essential. ALIA Graphic exists because of the American Library Association’s GNCRT. That group was formed

8 INCITE Magazine | Library stories

around 2010 as a Special Interest Group, and then it was formally established as a roundtable in 2018. I followed what they were doing there and made contact with them.

After presenting at NLS9 in Adelaide, we had a small group of people who were interested in starting a similar group here in Australia.

Thankfully, James Baker, Secretary of ALIA Graphic, already had experience working with ALIA and had some contacts, so it all fell into place really quickly. With his ALIA network and my contacts with the GNCRT, it became clear that we could not establish just a Special Interest Group, but one that could collaborate with US and Canadian librarians.

Just a month after the group was formed, we were already doing webinars and podcasts, and collaborating with the American group, sharing resources and ideas. All these contacts not only made the ALIA Graphic group possible and better, but have also have been an invaluable resource for professional development and constant learning.

In your view, what are some of the biggest challenges facing the profession at this current moment?

It may be my background in media studies, but I have long been concerned about low information and media literacy. Libraries have a huge role to play in this area and I feel that, despite our awareness of the issues and our best intentions, we’re not doing enough in the sector to raise these literacy standards in the community. Schools are doing good work in this area. It could be

better though. We are surrounded by media, it’s all around us and, in my view, Media Studies should be a core subject, like English and Maths, starting in Year 7 at the latest.

But what about public libraries Australiawide making a concerted effort to develop programs for adults focusing on information and media literacy? Similarly, I’m very concerned about AI and the devastating effects we’re seeing in the creative sector. AI goes against the core principles of our sector, it’s trained through the theft of written and visual art and it’s already infecting libraries with poorly produced AI books and audiobooks. We can’t let that stand and we must fight it.

Finally, what are you reading/watching/ listening to at the moment that you would recommend to our readers?

I can’t read two books at the same time, but I usually read a book and a comic at the same time. In terms of books, most of what I read is non-fiction. I’m currently reading Grace Blakeley’s Vulture capitalism and I have Anna Funder’s Wifedom next in line. In terms of comics, I’m currently reading Blade runner 2039 and I have Rachel Ang’s I ate the whole world to find you to read next. She’s a huge talent and I’m so glad to see her first graphic novel published.

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RESEARCHER INSIGHTS

Researcher insights We are delighted to introduce a new column, ‘Researcher insights’ (see what we did there?).

The goal for this column is to share and celebrate some of the important and interesting research being done across the sector. In each issue, we will showcase three projects from an academic, an LIS practitioner and a PhD candidate, highlighting the diverse types of evidence being developed across the library and information sector. Get in touch at incite@alia.org.au if you’d like to share news about your project!

Researcher: Ellie Abdi Role: Lead, Information Science Discipline, Curtin University Research program description: Dr Ellie Abdi is an information researcher exploring how people experience and use information in their everyday lives. Her current research program focuses on developing Information eXperience Design (IXD) — a framework that draws on people’s real-world experiences with information to shape better ways of interacting with it. The goal?

To help communities use information more meaningfully and powerfully.

So far, Ellie has explored IXD in the context of migrant communities to uncover the different ways migrants seek, share and learn from information. She has worked with librarians in Australia and the US to explore how this understanding can inform library services and programs.

Ellie plans to extend this research to other communities and would love to hear from library professionals interested in collaborating. Together, she thinks, we can co-design information offerings that truly support the diverse needs of our communities.

Contact: elham.sayyadabdi@curtin.edu.au

10 INCITE Magazine | Researcher insights

RESEARCHER INSIGHTS

Researcher: Shadika Jahan Shathi Role: PhD candidate, School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry, Curtin University Project description: This doctoral research investigates the evolving information needs of skilled immigrants during the initial, intermediate and advanced stages of settlement in Australia, focusing on the role of public libraries. Using a mixed-methods design, the study comprises a national survey of 360 skilled immigrants and in-depth interviews with 45 participants to explore their settlement experiences. In its second phase, interviews with 15 public librarians will assess how current services align with these needs and identify areas for improvement.

Grounded in established models of immigrant integration and settlement, the research aims to provide practical, evidence-based recommendations to enhance library services.

By addressing informational and structural challenges, the study aims to advance understanding of how libraries can foster equitable access to information, promote social inclusion, and support the long-term integration of skilled immigrants.

The findings will inform future library practices and guide the development of responsive policies within the Australian context.

Status: In progress.

Contact: shadika.shathi@postgrad.curtin.edu.au LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shadikashathi

Researcher: Erin Roga Role: Liaison Librarian (Review Protocols), Federation University Australia Project description: Erin recently completed a research project with a team of librarians from the US that surveyed autistic people to explore their experiences of applying for jobs in academic libraries.

The goal was to listen to people’s lived experience to try to determine ways of improving the recruitment process, making it more inclusive and accessible.

The project found people were reluctant to disclose being autistic due to potential stigma and discrimination, and a lack of helpful accommodations, such as providing interview questions in advance.

The research team recommended that people involved in recruitment educate themselves about autism with the result that universal design principles are used and there is improved clarity and consistency in the recruitment process. It is hoped these recommendations will be used to inform staff responsible for recruitment in academic libraries and other organisations in the Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums sector.

Status: The paper is available on Federation ResearchOnline.

Contact: e.roga@federation.edu.au

Researcher insights | INCITE Magazine 11

FROM THE ARCHIVE

UNESCO Australian memory of the world: Shining a light on collections

By Roxanne Missingham

From the archive ‘Documentary heritage reflects the diversity of languages, peoples and cultures. It is the mirror of the world and its memory. But this memory is fragile. Millions of textual and print items such as books, manuscripts, newspapers, photographs and governmental records; millions of films, audio and video tapes and discs are at risk of crumbling into dust or fading away and disappearing for eternity.’ — UNESCO, Safeguarding the documentary heritage of humanity

Australian cultural institutions hold an extraordinarily rich diversity of collections that tell the story of our nation. While individually these are recognised by the galleries, libraries, archives and museums (GLAM) that house them, their significance is often unrecognised — our so-called ‘Cinderella’ collections.

The UNESCO Memory of the World program seeks to provide a means to identify and ensure preservation of our collections through a rigorous, well-managed approach of assessing the significance of nominations of collections. Most importantly, it gives visibility to these extraordinary collections. Launched by UNESCO in 1993, the program aims ‘to guard against collective amnesia, calling upon the preservation of the valuable archive holdings and library collections all over the world and ensuring their wide dissemination’. It is designed to recognise collections that are critical to our identity and knowledge.

Australian Register In 2000, the Australian Register was established under the oversight of the world’s second-ever national committee of its kind. It was established by Dr Jan Lyall of the National Library of Australia. It is a testament to the work of many distinguished professionals that the program has evolved and grown, now ably led by Dr Roslyn Russell, with a fabulous team led by Christine Yeats assessing nominations for inclusion in the register.

In 2001, the first inscriptions to the Australian Register were made: MS1, the HMS Endeavour journal of James Cook and the Mabo Case Manuscripts — both held by the National Library of Australia.

12 INCITE Magazine | From the archive

FROM THE ARCHIVE

Mabo Case Manuscripts Photo: The NLA has given permission for this image to be used in conjunction with reference to the Mabo Case Manuscripts inscribed on the International and Australian Registers.

Endeavour journal The Endeavour journal, written by Captain Cook, is a detailed account of his first voyage from 1768 to 1771 and reflects the scientific and imperial ambitions of the period. These daily entries, later submitted to the British Admiralty, offer insights into Cook’s observations and discoveries, and the broader geopolitical context in which he sailed.

At a time when European powers were competing to expand their empires, Britain was actively seeking to strengthen its political and economic influence. On 30 July 1768, the Lords of the Admiralty issued Cook with two sets of instructions. The first public directive was to observe the transit of Venus from Tahiti — part of a broader Enlightenment-era effort to advance scientific knowledge through exploration. The second, a ‘secret instruction’, was to be opened only once at sea. It tasked Cook with searching for the Great South Land, a ‘land of great extent’ believed to exist in the Southern Hemisphere, thereby combining scientific pursuit with strategic imperial expansion.

The significance of Cook’s Endeavour journal has many aspects. It documents groundbreaking scientific discoveries in the Pacific and Australia, and provides detailed accounts of early European encounters with Indigenous peoples of Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific — highlighting cultural, agricultural and social observations. At its core, the journal also reflects the imperial motivations of the era, capturing exploration as a precursor to colonisation.

Following the custom of the time, Cook’s journals were later published, but the original manuscript — complete with his own

handwriting and diagrams — remains a vital historical artefact. It served as a key reference for subsequent explorers and continues to be an essential resource for researchers studying the history of Australia and the Pacific. The journal’s record of the exploration of Tahiti and the Society Islands, the first circumnavigation and charting of New Zealand, and the first documented charting of Australia’s east coast are of immense historical value. As the inscription notes, ‘It is unique and irreplaceable, as no other journal of this voyage is in Cook’s handwriting.’

Mabo Case Manuscripts The Mabo Case Manuscripts provide an extraordinary insight into a seminal moment in Australian history. Edward Koiki Mabo was a Torres Strait Islander community leader and land rights campaigner.

He was appalled to find that he and other Murray Islanders were not the legal owners of land inherited under Meriam custom and tradition. On 20 May 1982, he, along with Sam Passi, David Passi, Celuia Mapo Salee and James Rice, initiated proceedings in the High Court against the State of Queensland and the Commonwealth, challenging the concept that Australia was an empty land owned by no one at the time of European colonisation (‘terra nullius’). He had extremely detailed records of the history of the land that were critical to the case. A decade later in June 1992, the High Court of Australia, in its judgement in the Mabo Case, overturned the doctrine of terra nullius.

The judgment was powerful, signalling a deep change in the law and influencing Indigenous people’s rights across the nation.

From the archive | INCITE Magazine 13

FROM THE ARCHIVE

As the entry in the register notes, ‘the Mabo papers, dating from 1959–92, are significant for their documentation of a crucial period in the history of race relations in Australia, featuring a series of battles and legal cases over the ownership and use of land, growing awareness of racial discrimination, and the social and health problems of Indigenous peoples’. The issues discussed in the papers have a bearing on the rights of both Indigenous peoples and the descendants of European settlers throughout Australia. The papers are also significant as they document much of the life and many of the experiences and thoughts of Edward Koiki Mabo.

Reflections on the new inscriptions Nearly 25 years on, the register has grown to include 98 items. The scope has broadened to consider collections that take an innovative approach to recognising the diversity of knowledge curated by the GLAM sector as well as the works themselves.

Last year, the collections inscribed, along with their locations in Australia, were: Funafuti: The Edgeworth David 1897 Expedition University of Sydney Archives, Macleay Collection at Chau Chak Wing Museum, National Library of Australia, State Library of NSW, Australian Museum, Sydney Tooth and Company Collection ANU Archives, Powerhouse Museum AustLit: The Australian Literature Resource AustLit The Hazel de Berg oral history collection National Library of Australia Pacific Manuscripts Bureau The Australian National University O’Donovan Catalogue Origins Collection 1883 Queensland Parliamentary Library Supreme Court Library Queensland Catalogues and Indexes, 1881–1975 Supreme Court Library Queensland Salvation Army Limelight Department Magic Lantern Slides Salvation Army Australia Museum, War Memorial Committee Records, University of Sydney British Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition Paget Plates 1915–1917 State Library of NSW

14 INCITE Magazine | From the archive

The extraordinary diversity of these newly listed collections demonstrates that specialised, smaller collections can be recognised — such as the British Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition Paget Plates 1915–1917 — as well as large, rich collections, such as the Hazel de Berg oral history collection. The stories behind the collections reveal so much about Australian and regional identity and reach across the decades to connect us with life in many places, be it Antarctica, the Pacific or NSW hotels.

Consider nominating!

Do you have a collection that could be nominated for the UNESCO Memory of the World Register? Nominations for the Australian Register will open again in the second half of 2025. Collections large and small, local and international, can be recognised.

When considering your collection Think about its cultural or historical significance. Has it provided insight to a particular community? Supported important research?

Captured an aspect of Australian or regional life that deserves recognition?

Who can nominate?

Any government, institution, organisation, group or individual can submit a nomination, though priority is given to those submitted via heritage institutions and to documentary heritage at risk. Joint nominations are encouraged, especially where significance is shared across multiple archives, libraries, museums or galleries.

How to nominate Detailed guidelines and support are available via the ‘How to nominate’ page. Don’t hesitate to contact the National Committee — they’re approachable, knowledgeable and eager to assist.

This is a wonderful opportunity to think broadly about your collections and consider partnerships that can help tell Australia’s story. The Memory of the World Program plays a vital role in safeguarding our shared documentary heritage.

MORE INFORMATION Learn more at www.amw.org.au

FROM THE ARCHIVE

Cook’s Endeavour journal.

Photo: Cook, James & Hutchinson, John & Wallis, Samuel & Bolckow, Henry William Ferdinand. (1768). Journal of H.M.S. Endeavour, Retrieved May 30, 2025, from http://nla.gov. au/nla.obj-228958440 Cook, James & Hutchinson, John & Wallis, Samuel & Bolckow, Henry William Ferdinand. (1768).

Journal of H.M.S. Endeavour, Retrieved May 30, 2025, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-228958440

From the archive | INCITE Magazine 15

ALIA NEWS

Welcoming the ALIA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Expert Group

The ALIA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Expert Advisory Group (EAG) was established in 2022 for a fixed term, to provide advice to the ALIA Board on Indigenous priorities.

The EAG led substantial work culminating in the Indigenous Governance Framework, which was endorsed in principle by the ALIA Board in December 2024. The EAG also provided invaluable expert advice on a number of key projects including the ALIA Skills, Knowledge and Ethics Framework for the LIS Workforce and the ALIA Code of Ethics for the LIS Workforce.

Following recommendations from the EAG in late 2024, the new permanent ALIA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Expert Group has now been established by the ALIA Board. The slight name change reflects the substantial input the group provides into ALIA’s projects, initiatives and strategic planning. The group has new terms of reference, but has a continuing membership from the EAG. Already in 2025, members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Expert Group have been working to review and revive the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Library, Information and Resource

NEW MEMBER Jacinta Burukumalawuy Milingimbi Library and University of Melbourne

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Network (ATSILIRN), as well as the ATSILIRN Protocols, and supported work on the First Nations Collections Description Guidelines Project. We are delighted to work on an ongoing basis with this group of talented, generous LIS professionals and look forward to bringing you further updates on their work throughout the year.

New members and departing members In 2024, the group welcomed two new members: Tui Raven (Deakin University) and Jacinta Burukumalawuy (Milingimbi Library and University of Melbourne). Tui is a Yamaji Nyungar woman based in Naarm and is working as the Senior Manager Indigenous Programs at Deakin Library.

In 2023 she authored the Guidelines for First Nations Collections Description for the Australian library sector as a joint project with ALIA, CAVAL, the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Studies (AIATSIS) and the Council of Australasian University Librarians. She is also a co-founder of the Australian Reparative Description Community of Practice.

Jacinta is a Yolngu woman from the Dhamarrandji clan nation of Djambarrpuyngu language group from Milingimbi North East Arnhem Land.

Jacinta has extensive experience in Indigenous advocacy and education, working on community and local history projects in Milingimbi, and teaching local, national and international audiences about Yolngu identity, kinship, connections and sign language. You may also recognise Jacinta from this very magazine! You can read about her library story in the March 2024 edition.

Face-to-face meeting of the EAG in Meanjin 2024: (L–R) Tui Raven, Damien Webb, Trish Hepworth (ALIA), Kirsten Thorpe, Lesley Acres, Rebecca Bates, Ryan Stoker, Karina Lamb (ALIA Board) and Yanti Ropeyarn (front). Photo: Supplied

Two founding members of the ALIA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Expert Advisory Group have now stepped down from the group. ALIA would like to express enormous gratitude to Kirsten Thorpe and Yanti Ropeyarn for their years of generous work, for their energy and goodwill getting the group off the ground, for sharing their professional expertise, and for guiding ALIA through a number of major projects and initiatives.

MORE INFORMATION You can find out more about the Expert Group, its work and its members here.

NEW MEMBER Tui Raven Deakin University

OUTGOING MEMBER Associate Professor Kirsten Thorpe Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research, University of Technology Sydney

OUTGOING MEMBER Yanti Ropeyarn Senior Specialist, Indigenous Initiatives (ATSIDA), University of Technology Sydney Library

ALIA NEWS

Strengthening school libraries: New national guidance from ALIA ACSL

In April, the Australian Coalition for School Libraries (ACSL) — the school library sector committee of ALIA — released four nationally agreed policy statements to guide school leaders and school library staff. These policies articulate national expectations for school library staffing, funding, activities and priorities, and provide a valuable reference point for shaping and supporting strong school library programs across Australia. Read on to see what each statement covers, why it matters, and how you can use these policies to strengthen school libraries in your context.

defined duties and responsibilities, properly regulated conditions of employment, and compensation that reflects the role expectations of their positions.

Staffing To meet the educational and wellbeing needs of the school community, it is essential to have qualified library staff in sufficient numbers, matched to both the size and specific needs of the school. The ALIA ACSL statement on school library staffing outlines the roles of school library staff, acknowledging that each qualified member of a school library team brings important skills and knowledge to the school library setting.

School library staff should have clearly

Information literacy Qualified school library staff play an expert role in collaborating with teachers to design and facilitate information literacy development across the curriculum for all students. The ALIA ACSL statement on school libraries and information literacy outlines the essential information literacy skills that contemporary learners need, policy guidelines and regulations that nurture an information-literate school community, and guidelines for

Funding and resourcing Funding and resourcing the school library is an investment that directly supports the longterm educational and wellbeing goals of a school community. The ALIA ACSL statement on school library funding and resourcing sets national expectations for the provision of school library resources, including staff expertise, facilities, programs and services for the delivery of a quality education.

school library staff to effectively embed information literacy into the school teaching and learning program.

Digital literacy Similarly, the ALIA ACSL statement on school Libraries and digital literacy lists the essential digital literacy skills for contemporary learners. It outlines how these can be best supported by school policies, guidelines and regulations, embedded in a school’s teaching and learning program, and championed by school library staff.

We’re encouraging school leaders around Australia to reference these statements to ensure that every student and teacher has access to an appropriately resourced school library led by qualified professionals. Library staff, in turn, can use these policy tools for planning, advocacy and professional conversations within their schools and broader networks.

ABOUT THE AUSTRALIAN COALITION FOR SCHOOL LIBRARIES The Australian Coalition for School Libraries (ACSL) is the national voice for school libraries in Australia. Created in 2023, it provides a united and professional voice on issues affecting school libraries and support for school library staff across Australia.

The members of ACSL are ALIA, the Queensland School Library Association (QSLA); School Library Association of New South Wales (SLANSW); School Library Association of South Australia (SLSA); School Library Association of Victoria (SLAV); Western Australian School Library Association (WASLA); and the Australian School Library Association (ASLA).

News | INCITE Magazine 17

ALIA NEWS

Q&A: Adult Literacy Getting Started Kit

GETTING STARTED KIT

©

Hannah Olinger

Resources for setting up a library-based adult literacy service

ALIA Adult Literacy Group | October 2024 adultliteracy.alia.org.au

As libraries across Australia expand their role in supporting lifelong learning, the demand for accessible and effective adult literacy services continues to grow.

In response, the ALIA Adult Literacy Group has developed the Adult Literacy Getting Started Kit — a practical, research-informed resource designed to help libraries establish or strengthen one-to-one literacy and numeracy tutoring programs.

We sat down with two key members of the ALIA Adult Literacy Special Interest Group who played a central role in developing the kit: Iona Johnson, Senior Literacy Advisor with Libraries Tasmania, and Andrea McMahon, former convenor of ALIA Digital Literacy. Iona and Andrea take us through the origins of the project, the challenges adult learners face, and how libraries can use the kit to build services that change lives, one learner at a time.

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ALIA: I’d love to start with a very basic question for any readers who aren’t aware — what is the Adult Literacy Getting Started Kit? The Getting Started Kit contains information and resources for providing literacy and numeracy support to adults in library and community programs. The kit is a great resource for anyone delivering or planning to introduce an adult literacy program into their library. The kit provides information for library staff and tutors about how to provide effective individual tutoring to adults — those who speak English as a first language and those who are learning English as an additional language (EAL) — who want to improve their literacy and/or numeracy skills. It also includes information and resources for running English conversation groups that often take place in libraries. All resources listed in the kit are informed by research, aligning with

a cognitive approach to understanding learning and instruction and have a focus on the component skills an adult learner needs to acquire to become a competent reader and writer.

The information and resources provided in the kit are not exhaustive, nor are they intended to replace volunteer tutor training courses. They do, however, offer a starting point and a way forward for libraries embarking on an adult literacy journey. The kit also has a strong focus on providing links to the key research that underpins the approaches and strategies contained within the recommended resources. It is designed to provide a range of resource options that will suit an organisation’s budget and scope of service. There are suggestions for both free and paid resources that align with the recommended research-informed approaches. Content covered in the kit

ALIA NEWS

Photo: iStock

includes information on learner assessment, reading, writing and numeracy instruction, recommended courses and websites, engaging adult learners, issues in adult literacy, and supporting EAL learners.

Can you talk a little bit about how this project came about and what it was developed in response to?

The ALIA Adult Literacy Group was started in late 2021 in response to the growing interest in offering adult literacy services, particularly one-to-one volunteer tutoring programs, in our public libraries. The group has members all over Australia and meets via Zoom to share ideas, research, resources and informal professional learning opportunities.

Members particularly valued the professional learning sessions, and it was clear there was interest in developing the knowledge that underpins instruction, as

well as learning about research-informed resources to use in tutoring sessions.

However, while the Zoom meetings were well received, it was evident that a more systematic guide was needed to navigate the complex adult literacy landscape for those new to this area.

There are a wide range of resources available on the internet and it can be difficult to work out which ones might be useful. The kit identifies a rationale for choosing resources, informed by the research on how the brain learns to read.

In your view, what are some of the major barriers that adult Australians face in acquiring the literacy skills they need?

Limited access to learning opportunities is one of the significant barriers facing adults who would like to improve their reading, writing and numeracy skills.

Most literacy support is delivered in major

centres, during working hours, and in group learning environments that cannot easily address the individual learning needs of adults. These barriers to literacy learning can be addressed by offering flexible and confidential one-to-one literacy tutoring in urban, regional and remote communities via Australia’s network of public libraries.

Adults who find reading and writing difficult may have had difficult experiences at school and then developed a sense of shame and embarrassment. It can be a big step to ask for help as an adult.

The prospect of working in a group when you don’t feel confident can be overwhelming. The opportunity to work one to one in a library tutoring program can be an important for rebuilding skills and confidence.

Access to research-informed resources and volunteer tutor training courses is another barrier adult learners face.

News | INCITE Magazine 19

ALIA NEWS While there are a wide range of resources available in the adult literacy space, many of which are free, many resources on offer are not supported by current research into how our brains function when we learn to read and write. For learners who have just decided to seek help, it is important that the help offered is effective and that they are able to successfully learn.

With more libraries showing an interest in introducing adult literacy services, it was clear that a ‘getting started kit’, which provided both underpinning knowledge and a flexible range of tutoring strategies to suit services of differing size and capacity, was needed.

The Getting Started Kit was the work of multiple people in the ALIA Adult Literacy Special Interest Group and across the sector. How did you work together as a group to pull together such a comprehensive list of resources?

The Getting Started Kit was developed by a working group of Adult Literacy Group members who had significant experience developing and delivering library adult literacy services. The group met via Zoom for several months. Iona Johnson, Senior Literacy Advisor with Libraries Tasmania, led the content development and the group was also fortunate to have as a member a dyslexia consultant, Melinda Marshall, who was able to cast a critical eye over the draft kit.

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The Getting Started Kit working group had fantastic support from ALIA, especially from Jacqui Lucas, who was ALIA’s Adult Literacy Liaison Officer at the time the kit was being developed.

How do you hope people in the library workforce use the Getting Started Kit? And what, to you, would ‘success’ look like?

The kit has been developed on the premise that library adult literacy services are not one-size-fits-all, with the range of options provided reflecting this. The kit not only provides a starting point for those new to adult literacy, but also identifies the research that underpins effective instruction, which can be used to critically evaluate any new or existing resource.

Ideally, libraries will use the kit to build their adult literacy understanding and share this knowledge with tutors.

Success would be adults all over Australia going into a local library to get effective help to build their literacy/numeracy skills, rebuilding their confidence, realising they could do more than they had ever imagined, creating new opportunities for more learning and engagement in life, work and study.

Individual tutoring is a powerful way of meeting individual literacy needs and helping someone change the course of their life. It can help adults to step out of the margins to participate more fully in everyday life.

Success depends on well-trained and supported tutors who can effectively work with adult learners. Adult literacy tutoring is very rewarding work, and it is moving to witness the learning and growth of individuals who are brave enough to seek help. This courageous step involves vulnerability, and it is a big responsibility for a tutor to take on. Tutors need to be prepared for this and will need support from library staff.

Finally, do you have plans to revise the kit and are you seeking feedback from people in the library workforce?

We plan to formally review the kit annually, but as it’s a living document, changes can be made on an ongoing basis as new research and new and upgraded resources become available. As the kit will be updated on an ongoing basis, we hope it will be a go-to resource to ensure libraries are delivering a service that is based on the best research available, ensuring the best outcomes for learners.

While the Adult Literacy Group will seek comprehensive feedback prior to the annual review, people are welcome to provide feedback at any time by emailing adultliteracy@alia.org.au or the group’s convenor, Shelly Lausberg, shellylausberg@logan.qld.gov.au.

DIGITAL LITERACY Photo: Pexels

By Zoran Opacic, Digital Literacy Programs Officer, Libraries SA

Opening windows (and doors) through digital literacy In today’s world, digital literacy is essential.

As we navigate both a physical and a digital world, not having the skills to engage online can significantly affect your life. It can make it harder to protect yourself from scams and identity theft, access vital services like health care, and even limit educational and job opportunities. For many, not being able to connect through social media or video calls can also lead to social isolation, especially among those who may already face challenges in staying connected.

Library staff have always been committed to supporting customers from all walks of life, backgrounds and abilities when it comes to strengthening digital skills. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on existing skills, library staff can guide you through digital tools, help you navigate online services, and offer digital literacy sessions that are tailored to your needs.

Digital skills In even better news, to support the work

already being done by library staff, all 133 public libraries across South Australia — connected through the Public Libraries Network and represented by Libraries SA — can now offer free access to the Being digital website. Led by the Public Library Services Team, the Being digital initiative is designed to support digital inclusion for everyone. It equips individuals with the basic skills they need to stay safe online, access important information and engage with useful digital services. These skills are more than just about technology; they open doors to lifelong learning, job opportunities, and the ability to stay connected to others.

In fact, last year, 82% of library users who participated in digital skills training at South Australian libraries reported feeling more confident using digital tools, and 75% felt their skills had improved. These programs are designed to meet people at all stages of their digital journey, from beginners to more advanced users, ensuring that no one is left behind. Libraries are not only key places for

accessing information, but they also remain a vital community resource. Last year, 493,659 members engaged with one or more South Australian public libraries, using their library card to access a wide variety of resources.

Of these, 67% reported gaining knowledge that they could apply to their personal and professional lives.

MORE INFORMATION To explore more, visit the Being digital webpage, which organises content by topic and provides links to related digital literacy programs.

Uncover more in the full report: South Australian Public Library Network customer research report.

Zoran Opacic AALIA (CP) Digital Literacy Programs Officer State Library of South Australia — Public Library Services zoran.opacic@sa.gov.au

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ALIA NEWS

Sandra Ryan, FALIA: A tribute Sandra Ryan BA, BEd, AFALIA, M.Lib & Info St, AALIA, MACE, FALIA began her library career in 1971. Her first position was Librarian at Mercy Teachers College in Melbourne.

Sandra had a strongly held belief that, to undertake this position well, being suitably qualified was essential. It would ensure an authenticity to the role and strengthen the profession. Therefore, Sandra joined ALIA and then sat its external registrations exams after completing the course, within two years, via correspondence. Sandra was to become a longstanding supporter of ALIA and this was acknowledged with recognition as a 50+ Member and, more importantly, the conferring of a Fellowship in 2021.

Ten years into her career, Sandra accepted her first job as teacher librarian. This led to a 30-year career working in both primary and

secondary school libraries and as the Library Adviser for the Catholic Education Office, Melbourne. Here she made an indelible mark on the profession. Throughout her career, Sandra provided support and guidance to school library staff and encouraged their professional development. She believed in the use of data as the most important evidence to ensure best practice for teacher librarians and the development of school libraries.

Sandra had keen interest the areas of staffing, funding, and successful learning outcomes for students.

In 1987 Sandra joined ALIA Schools and was a most active and committed member of the committee until her resignation, due to ill health, in December 2024. Sandra held various positions, which included the roles of President, Secretary and Professional

Development Coordinator, and she was a representative on many library committees and working parties. Notably, she led ALIA Schools during tumultuous times in the 1990s and set the standard for what a robust and creative ALIA Group could be. She was a generous and exemplary leader and mentor, encouraged many people to join the association, and inspired many to be active members of ALIA Schools.

The industry is richer for her dedication and fortitude. There has never been a more worthy and ardent advocate for school libraries. Her legacy is evident with the partnerships she formed, the many resources she developed, the professional development sessions she facilitated, and the countless hours dedicated to administration tasks and meetings.

Sandra fought her illness with bravery and dignity and succumbed on 3 April 2025. We offer our heartfelt condolences to her husband, Peter, and her daughters, Carrie and Anthea, and their families.

May Sandra rest in peace.

Sandra Ryan was a guiding light in school libraries, an inspiration and a joy to work alongside.

Sandra backed advocacy with hard evidence, intellect, and compassion. A rare combination of dedication and generosity of spirit.

Anne Girolami, FALIA and ALIA Schools Committee Member

Sandra was a voice of reason — gracious, clear, and passionate about school libraries. A thinker, a doer, and a true legacy builder.

Sandra’s meticulous library review strengthened our college’s heart. Her expertise left a lasting impact on our learning community.

Pru Mitchell, FALIA

Sr Mary Moloney RSM, Principal at The Academy of Mary Immaculate, Fitzroy

Tributes

Sandra touched countless lives with her unwavering dedication and wisdom. Her professional strength and kindness will never be forgotten.

Anne Chowne, ALIA Schools Committee 2012–14

Kris Johnstone, ALIA Schools Committee 1986–2015

Sandra’s commitment reshaped the role of teacher librarians in Catholic schools. A truly inspirational educator whose influence endures.

Tilly Stoove, ALIA Schools Committee 2004–15

Sue McKerracher, CEO ALIA 2012–21

Sandra created vibrant libraries where students were challenged to excel. Her advocacy and leadership continue to inspire.

Anna Apfelstedt, ALIA Schools SIG Committee Member

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ALIA NEWS

Sandra’s grace, humour, and wisdom enriched every collaboration.

A passionate advocate whose legacy will not be forgotten.

Susanne Graetsch, ALIA Schools SIG Committee Treasurer

Sandra empowered school library staff with strength, drive, and knowledge.

Her sessions transformed rural networks with professionalism and care.

Margaret Sinnott, Library Coordinator Emmanuel College, Warrnambool

Sandra transformed traditional libraries into vibrant learning hubs.

Her integrity and vision were gifts to all she worked with.

Dr Wendy Cahill AM DSG, Principal Sacré Coeur Glen Iris 1995–98

Sandra’s dedication and work ethic were unmatched. She was much loved — and always impeccably stylish.

Karen Marston, ALIA Schools SIG Committee Member

Sandra mentored so many, often with a quiet nudge and encouragement. We stand on her shoulders — she is our legacy.

Catherine Ryan, ALIA Schools SIG Committee Website Manager

Sandra balanced grace with precision, holding us to the highest standard. Her attention to detail ensured lasting excellence.

Dr Helen Weston, ALIA Schools SIG Committee Convenor

Photo: Supplied

News | INCITE Magazine 23

ALIA NEWS

The 2024 ALIA Graphic Notables Lists

Junior •H ello twigs: Look who’s grumpy by Andrew McDonald and Ben Wood (Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing) • S ecret Agent Mole book 3: Dr Nude

by James Foley (Scholastic Australia) •W hen the world was soft by Juluwarlu Group and Alex Mankiewicz (Allen & Unwin)

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The 2024 ALIA Graphic Notables Lists highlight the amazing talent working in Australian comics. Each list ­— Junior, Young Adult and Adult — is selected by a panel of library professionals from a longlist of comics and graphic novels that have Australian creators and were published in the 2024 calendar year in a format that fits with the majority of libraries’ collection policies. We congratulate the winners:

Young Adult • The Dreaming volumes 1–3 by Queenie Chan (IFWG Publishing International) • Follow Your gut by Ailsa Wild, Lisa Stinson, Briony Barr, Gregory Crocetti and Ben Hutchings (Scribe Publications) • The Sweetness between us by Sarah Winifred Searle (Allen & Unwin)

Adult • 12 Rules for strife by Jeff Sparrow and Sam Wallman (Scribe) • T he Islands where we left our ancestors

by Joshua Santospirito (Scribe Publications) • Tunis to Sydney by Meriam Carnouche, Christian Carnouche and Sam Rapley (Fairsquare)

ALIA NEWS

Introducing ALIA’s newest Special Interest Group: Enterprise Information Management

By Emily Miller, Group Convenor

In today’s digital landscape, information is everywhere — but managing it effectively is a growing challenge. That’s where Enterprise Information Management (EIM) comes in. ALIA’s newest Special Interest Group (SIG) has been created to support professionals working at the intersection of data, records, knowledge, archives and technology — those navigating the complexities of managing information across large and dynamic organisations.

EIM represents a critical discipline within most modern organisations.

While technology continues to evolve rapidly, the strategic management of information often remains fragmented, inconsistent and undervalued. As digital transformation has accelerated and organisations continue to invest heavily in cloud platforms, automation, analytics and AI, information itself is often poorly managed. Despite the critical role that information plays in compliance, decisionmaking, innovation, customer experience and enterprise outcomes, its governance and quality remain inconsistent across departments and systems.

Enterprise information lives across the breadth of an organisation — in transactional databases and shared drives, in content management systems, data lakes, meeting minutes, internal wikis, customer service logs and dashboards.

It takes many forms — structured and unstructured, digital and physical, formal and informal. With this sprawl comes a tangle of overlapping disciplines: information technology, knowledge management, records management,

archives, business intelligence and, now increasingly, AI. Each has its own tools, language, mandates and governance, and all are orbiting the same core asset: information.

This fragmentation leads to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. It creates duplication, misclassification and disconnected systems that come at the expense of information’s accessibility, quality and trustworthiness. It impairs an organisation’s ability to gain insights, ensure compliance and confidently innovate. The result is a growing tension between the promise of enterprise technology and the reality of inconsistent information foundations.

EIM seeks to address this challenge. It is a holistic and integrative approach that brings together governance, architecture, metadata, lifecycle management, and strategic alignment of information across the organisation. It recognises that information is a core business asset, irrespective of mode or medium. EIM acknowledges that enterprise success — whether in adopting AI, improving analytics, enhancing customer experience or mitigating risk — relies fundamentally on the quality, structure and governance of the information that fuels these efforts.

The EIM SIG has been established to empower information professionals to step confidently into this space. It supports practitioners in becoming leaders in strategic information design and helps to advocate for information as a critical component of digital, technological and organisational strategy. The SIG will explore

how to build integrated, scalable and context-sensitive approaches that connect information silos, elevate information practices and ensure that data, documents and knowledge are governed as continuously valuable, shared enterprise assets.

The ALIA EIM SIG brings together the many branches of enterprise information practice — from data, information and knowledge to records, archives, technology, analytics and intelligence.

Our purpose is to affirm the central role of information management in the enterprise, and to provide a space for practitioners to reconnect, rethink and realign how information is handled across its many forms and functions. Through a collaborative forum of discussion, knowledge sharing and professional development, the SIG will provide the tools, strategies and peer support needed to embed EIM practices within a variety of organisational contexts, to foster innovation, and embed good information management into the fabric of enterprise decision-making.

MORE INFORMATION If you would like to find out more, please visit ALIA Enterprise Information Management.

News | INCITE Magazine 25

EDUCATION

Breaking barriers:

How academic libraries can lead the open educational resources revolution

By Melissa Cuschieri and Jenny Luethi Southern Cross University Library

How can academic libraries drive real change in higher education? At Southern Cross University (SCU), we are proving that open educational resources (OER) are more than just free textbooks — they’re a game changer for equity, inclusion and student success. Inspired by the success of SCU psychology students saving thousands of dollars through OER, we launched an initiative to integrate open-access materials into the university’s new veterinary sciences courses. Since then, the SCU library staff have become even more committed to reducing costs associated with textbooks and have worked closely with academics across all faculties to ensure all content provided is relevant and up to date without the expensive commercial textbook costs.

SCU now has nearly 20 zero textbook cost (ZTC) courses across several faculties!

This story isn’t just about one university: it’s a blueprint for how libraries can lead the charge in making higher education more affordable and accessible. SCU’s model demonstrates that librarians are active agents of change in education.

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The rising cost of textbooks has become a significant barrier for students, particularly in today’s demanding academic environment.

At SCU, librarians recognised this challenge and saw an opportunity to transform it into an incentive for change. By proactively integrating OER into the new veterinary sciences units, they’ve demonstrated how libraries can move beyond traditional roles and become drivers of educational equity.

The journey began with a simple yet powerful idea: to ensure that students have access to high-quality, affordable learning materials.

Proactive collaboration: A new model for library engagement Instead of merely responding to faculty requests for resources, the librarians at SCU took a proactive approach. They began compiling lists of OER and alternative resources even before the courses were fully developed. This early engagement allowed them to collaborate closely with the curriculum design team, ensuring that open resources were integrated into the course content where possible.

This collaborative approach was crucial. It involved regular meetings, detailed curriculum mapping and a shared commitment to student success. The librarians documented potential OER, creating a comprehensive resource guide that included textbooks, videos, images and interactive content, all freely available or licensed under Creative Commons.

Overcoming challenges, building a blueprint Of course, the journey was not without its challenges. Identifying suitable OER that met academic standards and addressed the specific needs of the veterinary science curriculum required extensive research and evaluation.

The team also faced the challenge of convincing teaching staff to embrace open resources — a task that required patience, empathy and a clear articulation of the benefits.

One significant hurdle was the lack of Australia-specific OER. However, this challenge led to solutions such as collaborating with the library subscriptions team to secure database trials and purchasing print copies of essential textbooks for scanned readings for the students.

EDUCATION Photo: iStock

This story isn’t just about one university: it’s a blueprint for how libraries can lead the charge in making higher education more affordable and accessible.

The librarians also recognised the importance of ongoing support and training.

They highlighted the need for regular communication with faculty and the importance of utilising professional networks to locate valuable resources.

Sharing the vision Their commitment to OER advocacy extended beyond their university walls. Eager to share their insights and inspire others, the librarians presented their project at the ALIA National Conference in Adelaide in 2024, in a lightning talk titled ‘Unlocking knowledge: Promoting open educational resources’. This presentation highlighted their proactive approach to integrating OER into the new veterinary science programs, emphasising the importance of equitable access to learning materials, particularly within the context of SCU’s innovative Southern Cross Model.

The talk aimed to inspire fellow librarians to embrace OER as a tool for driving change and promoting inclusivity in higher education, showcasing that these battles for equitable access are won through consistent effort and collaboration. There is also a chapter in the recently released Open education Down UndOER: Australasian case studies about the librarians’ efforts.

A vision for the future: National repository for OER The success of the SCU initiative has broader implications. It demonstrates that libraries can play a key role in creating a more equitable and accessible higher education system. The librarians at SCU envision a future where a national digital repository of OER supports universities across Australia.

This repository would contain a wealth of open resources, including textbooks, videos, images and interactive content, all mapped to specific subject areas and learning outcomes.

It would serve as a valuable resource for faculty and students, promoting collaboration and innovation in teaching and learning.

Practical tips for OER integration For libraries looking to replicate SCU’s success, the librarians offer several practical tips: ● start early — engage with faculty during the initial stages of course development (if possible) ● collaborate — foster strong partnerships with curriculum designers and faculty ● document and share — create comprehensive resource guides and share them widely ● evaluate — use checklists to ensure the quality of OER ●a dvocate — clearly communicate the benefits of OER to faculty and administrators ● policy support — ensure institutional policies support the use of OER. The SCU story is a testament to the transformative power of libraries in higher education. By embracing OER and fostering collaboration, libraries can drive real change, making education more affordable, accessible and equitable for all.

AUTHORS Melissa Cuschieri, Education and Research Librarian, SCU melissa.cuschieri@scu.edu.au Jenny Luethi, Education and Research Librarian, SCU jennifer.luethi@scu.edu.au

Photo: iStock

Feature | INCITE Magazine 27

FELLOWSHIP

Benchmarking the balance of access: Reflections from a Churchill Fellow

Interior of the entrance hall in the Biblioteca Nacional de España.

Photo: Supplied

By Phillipa Stevens

In 2015 I heard a staff lecture given by Churchill Fellow Kate Hughes and pricked up my ears. What was this opportunity? Could I use it to resolve the tension between the academic reading about collection security (which was very undetailed) and the actual working practice? I decided the answer was yes. In 2019, when my family was ready for me to be away for a stretch, I submitted a successful application.

I have been told that many Churchill Fellows hear about this amazing opportunity through other Fellows, and so I am writing this article in the hope that others may seek out the opportunity if it is right for them. Looking back through the years, there have been surprisingly few Fellows from libraries and archives, despite the hugely important role we play in working with communities. I want to change that!

Winston Churchill Trust The Trust was established very shortly after Sir Winston Churchill’s death in 1965. It had been discussed with him as a better legacy than a statue (though, of course, many statues in honour of Churchill now exist around the world), and plans had been in preparation for quite some time as he was nearing the end of his life. Four weeks after he died, there was a fundraising effort all over Australia. (I have now met someone who remembers giving a pound at the door! I was thrilled.) With that money, and subsequent generous sponsors and donors, the Trust now funds over 100 Fellows every year to embark on ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ research trips.

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FELLOWSHIP

The criteria make it simple for members of the community to apply; it is not just for those working in academia or research. Applicants must be 18 or over and an Australian citizen. Further, they must demonstrate why their project needs international, on-the-ground research; why they are the person to complete it; and how they plan to give the benefit of that work to others in the community.

Reading room in the Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève in Paris, France.

Photo: Supplied

Library focus My research centred on collection security. I had become interested in collection security after starting work at the State Library of NSW and becoming responsible for the operation of the Special Collections area in the Mitchell Library in 2012. While I am a 2019 Churchill Fellow, I was unfortunately delayed from travelling until late 2023 for several reasons. The official title of my research report is: ‘To benchmark the balance of access, security and preservation for significant library collections’, and you can find it freely available here.

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FELLOWSHIP

During my research, I was careful to approach institutions I was hoping to visit equipped with information about how I would be careful with their data. I also informed them that I was hoping for a high-level discussion of the topics, that I did not expect to be taken anywhere particularly secure and, most importantly, that I would keep sites anonymous in my report.

I developed a list of 61 questions divided into themed areas of: • readers • high-value and unique collection material • storage • staff • policies • security incidents • displays/exhibitions • future planning.

Not all questions were relevant at every location, but the majority of sites answered almost all the questions. It gave me a comprehensive pool of data to work with as I visited 24 institutions across nine countries, including national libraries and archives, special university libraries and three significant public libraries.

Oval Reading Room at the Bibliothèque nationale de France, Richelieu Library, Paris.

Photo: Supplied

30 INCITE Magazine | Feature

Recommendations Based on my research, I suggest that collection security for Australian libraries and archives can be divided into four areas: collections, readers, physical infrastructure, and planning and management. Each of these is a pillar that holds the collection security of the institution; however, if one is weak, it will bring the structure down.

A high-value collection should be identified within your collection.

It should be kept in more secure storage that fewer staff have access to, preferably with multiple access methods. It should also be identified as belonging to your collection by marking it. I was truly surprised to hear many stories of collections being returned to owners only through their markings.

Readers should have to show identification before accessing collection items. It is important to know who they are. The less they bring with them into the reading room, the better. There should be information easily available to them about how to handle material correctly, and if your collection has 20th century papers in it, you should be issuing coloured paper for note-taking. All access points that readers come in contact with prior to and during their visit should be reviewed for positive phrasing. Try to avoid the word ‘no’ and presenting lists of restrictions.

Reading room in the Royal Danish Library.

Photo: Supplied

FELLOWSHIP

Where readers access this material is also important. It needs to be a separate space and have clear entry and exit processes. But this needs to be done in a friendly way, not punitive or gatekeeping. Ideally, the exit process includes checking the items the reader has with them on the way out.

The risk of internal theft by staff is a particularly unpleasant threat to counter, and it is easy to propose options that slow down staff work enormously. The better option is to regularly shelf check or stocktake collections. It is not a glamorous activity, but it really is the best preventative tool. Staff should also have access to very clear processes and tools around collection access, items not on shelf, long-term missing items and general processes around security. There should not be setand-forget workflows, but rather continuously evolving and improving processes that are regularly checked and discussed among staff.

The Churchill Fellowship was an extraordinary opportunity and unlike anything else I had experienced in my career. If you would like to talk about potential ideas for a Fellowship or have a question about collection security, you can get in touch with me via the ‘Contact Fellow’ page on the Churchill Trust’s website. And while you are there, check out the ‘Become a Fellow’ page too!

The National Library of the Netherlands in Den Haag.

Photo: Supplied

Feature | INCITE Magazine 31

OP-ED

When the library found me We’ve featured many stories about Australia’s much-loved public libraries in the pages of INCITE over the years. In this special piece, Lalitha Tripura Sundari blends memoir, creative prose and social observation to share how a local library became her first true point of connection after arriving in Australia. What begins as a practical errand — to have documents signed — unfolds into a reflection on identity, belonging and the unexpected ways libraries help us rebuild and find home.

By Lalitha Tripura Sundari

I arrived into Sydney on the first Wednesday of October. The weather sat on the edge between spring and a looming summer. My family — husband, kids and I — were groggy with travel, disoriented by the time zones and the enormity of change. Kingsford Smith Airport, modest and unassuming, felt like a threshold to another world. There was no one holding a placard with our names, no family of eager faces waiting to give us a warm hug and happy welcome. No one gave us strange looks either. We simply slipped into the stream of fellow travellers, each quietly carrying their own urgency, dreams and burdens. Our own belongings — the only things we owned — were scattered in front of us, and I had a heart filled with hope that this place could somehow become home.

In hindsight, I often ask myself: was I running away or growing?

Migration, I have learned, is less about geography and more about identity. We were not just moving from one place to another. We were deconstructing and reconstructing our lives; we were tearing down the familiar to clear space for the unknown.

Migration is a story as old as humanity itself. Every civilisation, every culture has, at some point, searched for new lands, new pastures, new beginnings. Often, we chase the promise of a fresh start, though the reality is rarely smooth. Starting over comes with confusion, discomfort and long stretches of feeling lost. The road to rebuilding is not straight — it bends, it breaks, it humbles.

Our first place was an Airbnb with a blindingly bright parrot-green sofa that made me wince when I caught a glimpse of it! Linoleum floors, mismatched furniture and three long flights of stairs with no elevator. But we made it work.

32 INCITE Magazine | Feature

Photo: iStock

OP-ED

Feature | INCITE Magazine 33

OP-ED

Photo: iStock

Sydney, at first, felt massive and strange. A city full of people, speaking a language that was well known but still unfamiliar. I missed connection. I missed warmth — the simple belonging that comes from sharing a space, words or even silence with others.

Then there was my daughter, at four, looping the same nursery rhyme on my laptop — one she had heard a hundred times already.

‘The itsy-bitsy spider climbed up the waterspout.

Down came the rain and washed the spider out.

Out came the sun and dried up all the rain, Then the itsy-bitsy spider climbed up the spout again.’

She should have been in school or daycare, but kindergarten here starts in January. We had to wait for the right papers, and those two months felt endless.

We also had a lot to learn about our new home. Road rules, figuring out bus routes, understanding how life worked here. When I needed a Justice of the Peace to sign Medicare documents, someone directed me to the local library. They noticed my two children in tow and in a tone of understanding said, ‘They’ll find something to do there.’

I thanked them, nodding politely, though inside I wondered: What could a library offer kids? Would my kids really stay quiet? Where I came from, libraries were for books and silence, not children.

Growing up in a small town in a faraway country, public libraries were very few. Lending libraries were more common, and often, books were borrowed but seldom read or returned.

34 INCITE Magazine | Feature

For me, these libraries were still magical, but I was not sure the next generation would feel the same. Little did I know, that short errand to get papers signed would lead me to the first place I felt connected in this new land.

I held my children’s hands tightly, said goodbye to my spouse — who, like a soldier entering battle, stepped into the job market with hope and grit — while I made my way to the library. We found it on the first floor of a quiet building. The big ‘LIBRARY’ sign caught our attention, and for the first time since we had landed, I felt something stir.

That happened to be the very day when story time was scheduled at 2:00 pm, and a friendly staff member guided us to the floor, handing out tokens. There were books, a space for children to sit and draw, computers for those needing access, and even phone chargers.

Printing facilities were available, and flyers advertised craft and sewing sessions, as well as book clubs.

The library became a symbol for me then, not just of books, but of the community I had been searching for. A place to connect with others who had also come to this country to build something new.

I thought we would step in and out of library. Instead, the library stepped into our lives — and stayed.

OP-ED

The heart of the community The library became a symbol for me — more than shelves of books or quiet corners. It became a gathering place, a refuge, and a quiet, steadfast reminder that community can exist even far from home.

Not necessarily built on shared origins but on shared intent, formed by kindred spirits also in search of belonging, also quietly building their version of home.

At the library I met people who, like me, had arrived in this country from various parts of the world carrying hopes, languages and memories from somewhere else. We were all searching — not just for information, books or catalogues, but for a sense of belonging. It was about connection. The library held the voices of people who came before me, the silent testimonies of others who had once felt rootless, searching for a place to anchor. I did not just read books there — I read lives. And in that shared space, I pieced together my own story.

Like me, the library felt like a migrant — open to everyone but owned by no one. It welcomed all without question and offered guidance and support. Its strength lay in its people: the customer service officers who greeted visitors with a smile, who guided new patrons with patience and kindness. In their hands, the library became a bridge between past and future, between languages, between generations.

Need to scan documents for a visa application? The library had machines and staff to help. Looking to learn English? Classes were there, waiting, as well as weekly chess programs, monthly programs to explore robotics and STEM. HSC students could get help with their studies, while senior members of the community could watch their favorite classic films from the video library or book a consultation for IT support. Families could plant ideas and food through seed library programs. Holiday workshops buzzed with children’s laughter, learning disguised as play, and scavenger hunts kept children engaged and occupied.

It was not just a library — it was the heartbeat of the community; it was a place to connect, to grow and to be seen.

Photo: iStock

Where the story settled We settled not far from Sydney, and our days began to take shape, slowly at first, like ink spreading across a page. We found rhythm in routine and solace in small certainties: morning walks, weekend markets, borrowed books. Friendships blossomed gently, like wildflowers by the roadside, unexpected but deeply rooted.

The child who once clung to my hand, singing ‘Itsy-bitsy spider’ on repeat, now races ahead on her bike, hair catching the wind, already running late for high school.

And I, who once navigated the structured world of IT systems and project deadlines, now slip on my library customer officer name tag with a quiet kind of pride.

The building I walk toward each day may appear modest from the outside, but within its walls, I have discovered a landscape richer than any spreadsheet ever offered.

As I step into the library once again, I smile as I help a mother guide her two young children inside. The scent of books and the soft hum of learning greet us at the door. There is a sacred rhythm in reshelving returned books, in helping a curious teen find their next escape or a new migrant scan documents that might unlock a future.

In arranging the LOTE section, I see echoes of my own story — a mosaic of language, longing and belonging.

This became possible through state-run courses, and I was supported by the guidance and opportunities provided through my ALIA membership. These were more than just credentials; they were affirmations that my journey had not been misled, but had redirected.

Today, I live my purpose not in bold declarations, but in the quiet service of others. In the hush of the library, I hear the beating heart of the community — and, at last, my own.

Feature | INCITE Magazine 35

CYBERSECURITY LIBRARIANS

Cybersecurity in libraries: A human-centric, AI-supported approach

By Steve Smith Market Leader, Education, CIVICA

Libraries are open and trusted spaces that can foster intellectual exploration and community engagement and provide access to a range of online collections and resources.

However, this ‘openness’ can bring with it unique cybersecurity challenges. At our last Spydus Users Group Network (SPUN) conference, cybersecurity expert Edward Farrell — who has worked as a consultant for the Australian Defence Force and draws on over 20 years’ experience in the field — discussed how libraries are impacted by cybersecurity threats and the importance of addressing these risks through a human- centric lens.

In this article, I unpack some of Farrell’s key recommendations for understanding 36 INCITE Magazine | Feature

and responding to the social dynamics that underpin cyber threats, how AI can be thoughtfully deployed to strengthen cybersecurity, and why collaboration between library staff and IT teams is essential. In addition, I’ll share practical tips that you can use in your library to build a culture of awareness, reduce vulnerabilities, and better protect your patrons and digital collections.

Understanding social dynamics Instead of viewing cybersecurity solely as a technical challenge, Farrell urges libraries to consider the human element. Many breaches result from predictable patterns of behaviour rather than sophisticated technological exploits. This is why the first step is always to build a culture of awareness about cybersecurity and integrate it into

your library’s day-to-day practices. By understanding the unique social dynamics of their environments and the patterns of behaviour of library staff and patrons when using technology, libraries can develop tailored cybersecurity practices that respect their mission while protecting sensitive data.

There are several practical ways for libraries to start building this culture of awareness.

• Training against social engineering: Educate staff to recognise and resist social engineering attacks. Simple scenarios, such as someone requesting access to a ‘restricted’ area, can be addressed through role-playing and scenario-based training.

• Promoting good password hygiene: Encourage unique, strong passwords for shared systems to reduce vulnerabilities

CYBERSECURITY

Photo: iStock

without compromising accessibility.

Password reuse is also a widespread issue.

Libraries should adopt password managers and promote multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance security.

• R egular audits and decommissioning: Outdated systems often become gateways for attackers. Libraries should routinely review and decommission unused infrastructure. Unused or poorly maintained systems are vulnerabilities waiting to be exploited. Regular audits and decommissioning of old infrastructure can mitigate these risks.

• Tailored solutions: Collaboration with IT teams can help libraries implement security measures that align with their specific needs, such as segmenting systems based on risk levels.

Embracing the role of AI As we know, AI is transforming industries and libraries are no exception. Rather than shy away from it, Farrell discussed how AI — when harnessed responsibly — can bolster cybersecurity in libraries, provided that overhyped expectations are managed.

Farrell’s insights remind libraries to view AI as a tool rather than a solution. By combining AI capabilities with human expertise, libraries can navigate the complexities of cybersecurity effectively.

AI can automate repetitive tasks, such as monitoring systems for unusual activity or flagging potentially malicious emails. In a library setting, this could free up IT resources to focus on more complex challenges. For example, AI can help identify vulnerabilities in library networks or detect patterns of

attempted unauthorised access. AI also offers opportunities to enhance user experiences.

For instance, libraries could use AI-driven chatbots to assist patrons while embedding cybersecurity measures into these interactions.

However, Farrell did stress the importance of ensuring AI systems are trained on reliable data. Like past technological shifts, such as the telephone, AI has enormous transformative potential, but it is not a panacea. He warned that manipulated or flawed datasets could lead to inaccurate AI outputs, creating new vulnerabilities rather than solving existing ones.

Libraries must approach AI thoughtfully, ensuring that its implementation complements human oversight. This dual approach can mitigate risks while maximising benefits.

Feature | INCITE Magazine 37

CYBERSECURITY Here are some tips for how to use AI safely in your library.

• Threat detection: AI can monitor library systems for anomalies, providing an early warning system against cyber threats.

• Patron education: AI tools can help create interactive modules to educate patrons about cybersecurity best practices.

• Enhanced security for digital collections: By analysing usage patterns, AI can identify potential risks to digital archives and recommend protective measures.

• Ensuring data integrity: As custodians of vast amounts of information, libraries play a crucial role in maintaining data integrity. Libraries should collaborate with cybersecurity experts to develop standards for AI deployment, ensuring trustworthy outcomes.

Collaboration is key Cybersecurity is a journey, not a destination, and it is one that relies upon cross-team collaboration. Farrell emphasised that

libraries must balance access with security while fostering collaboration with IT teams.

For example, shared workstations with generic passwords might be convenient but pose security risks. By segmenting systems based on their risk level, libraries can balance usability with protection.

Farrell identified the key issues libraries face in protecting their data.

• Weak passwords: Password reuse is a widespread issue. Libraries should adopt password managers and promote MFA to enhance security.

• Outdated systems: Unused or poorly maintained systems are vulnerabilities waiting to be exploited. Regular audits and decommissioning of old infrastructure can mitigate these risks.

•C onfiguration errors: Misconfigured software can leave systems exposed.

Libraries should prioritise regular updates and best practices.

• Business logic flaws: Simple oversights — such as the one by Amazon a few years

ago that allowed negative values in its transactions — can open the possibility of financial gain by users. Libraries should work closely with IT teams to identify and resolve these issues.

These are all issues that can be addressed through open communication and collaboration with IT staff. A good place to start for all teams working in the library is the Australian Cybersecurity Centre’s set of mitigation strategies, the ‘Essential Eight’. While not all elements may apply directly, adapting these strategies to the library context can establish a solid security foundation.

Cybersecurity in libraries is not just about preventing attacks; it’s about safeguarding the values of trust, knowledge and access. By adopting a proactive approach and fostering a culture of awareness, libraries can navigate the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape with confidence.

Photo: iStock

38 INCITE Magazine | Feature

MARKETING

Keeping up with the librarians: How a reality TV show influenced our social media strategy

By Jasmine Argent Marion Libraries, SA

In May 2023, I approached my colleague Denise with an idea for a social media video. At the time, our social pages were doing well, but I was always looking for ideas to take it to the next level and increase our engagement and follower base. I had seen other content creators on TikTok creating videos parodying the reality TV stars the Kardashians and thought it would be fun to do in a library context.

It would be called Keeping up with the librarians — a series of short, light-hearted videos showcasing library ‘drama’ in under 90 seconds.

I knew Denise, with her comedic style and deadpan humour, would be the perfect subject for our first attempt. She hesitantly agreed, and we filmed a short video where the drama involved her destroying my carefully curated book display. It was our first video on Instagram to reach over 100,000 views, and we received over 8,000 likes and 100+ comments from people sharing their love for Denise and asking for more. Our main character was born!

Encouraged by the positive response, we filmed a sequel. This time, I was tidying books on a shelf when Denise came along, grabbed some books and made a mess. This video got over 600,000 views, over 50,000 likes and 300+ comments on Instagram alone. Our followers grew by over 300%.

So, what made these videos so successful?

Firstly, they were entertaining. Our followers loved the drama!

Even though it wasn’t real, it was relatable, funny and just a little bit absurd. By incorporating this type of content into our social media, we evoked positive emotions and built connections with our audience. This made people more likely to like, comment on and share our other content. Most people use social media for entertainment, so we wanted to create content that was not only engaging but also showcased libraries as fun, vibrant and welcoming spaces.

Some comments from our followers: • ‘I am so emotionally invested in this! ’ • ‘Real Librarians of Marion is the content I’m here for.’

• ‘Now THIS is a reality show worth our time! ’ • ‘This is great social media content.’

☺

👏👏👏👏👏👏

Feature | INCITE Magazine 39

MARKETING

Secondly, people love behind-the-scenes content. Based on the responses we received, it was clear that our followers enjoyed getting a glimpse into library life and seeing our team and our workplace relationships — particularly the relationship between Denise and me. Our intergenerational workplace friendship felt unlikely but also relatable.

Thirdly, we actively engaged with our audience. Engagement plays a big role when building relationships and a community on social media, but that engagement needs to be reciprocal. When the series started gaining traction, we actively engaged with our followers by liking comments, replying to messages and acknowledging feedback — particularly in the first few days of posting. Even simple responses, like an emoji or a quick ‘thank you’ added a personal touch. We also found that posts with increased engagement and meaningful interactions were more likely to be shown to nonfollowers, expanding our reach. We still consistently like and reply to as many comments as we can for each post. Having this direct communication with our audiences tells us what they like, what they don’t like and what they want to see more of. Quite a few of our content ideas have come from comments on our videos. We’ve learnt that social media is not just a one-way street and you have to do more than just post a video.

Lastly, by watching our videos, our followers started to get to know us. This is exactly what we wanted, to encourage people to feel at ease coming into our libraries. People now recognise our faces and feel comfortable starting conversations with us, often commenting on the latest social media video they enjoyed. Social media has been a great tool in building positive relationships with our community, in person and online.

Many brands are discovering the benefits of using employeegenerated content (EGC) like ours to market themselves. EGC is content created by employees that highlights the workplace, culture and environment. This type of content humanises a brand, adds transparency, and makes it more relatable. While these library scenarios were dramatised, they still showcased our personalities.

The videos weren’t perfect, and it didn’t matter if we broke character or laughed. It came across as authentic.

Since launching the series in 2023, we’ve been able to maintain a consistent brand voice, personality and content style. This has led to remarkable growth in both our followers and engagement rates.

Our social media videos have even attracted media attention and international recognition, giving us a larger platform to showcase libraries as dynamic, engaging spaces — not just quiet places filled with books. But at the end of the day, our main goal is to get more people coming into our spaces, utilising our services and borrowing from our collection.

Creating engaging content Here are some tips to enhance your social media presence: •G et staff in front of the camera. It can be daunting, but you don’t have to create a whole reality series. Simple videos such as behindthe-scenes content, book recommendations and library tips can be effective.

• Focus on the three Es: entertaining, engaging, educational. When coming up with a content idea, think whether it is entertaining, engaging and/or educational. Every video should serve a purpose for you and your followers.

• Engage with your followers. Like and reply to comments, use polls and Q&A features, and respond promptly to messages. Libraries are community spaces — your social media should be too!

• Prioritise quality. This hasn’t been mentioned, but it is important: make sure your content is good quality. Pay attention to sound, lighting, editing and accessibility features like captions and text overlays.

• Be authentic. Don’t be afraid to showcase your personality! It’s the best way to connect with your followers.

By embracing creativity, authenticity and engagement, social media can be a powerful way for libraries to reach new audiences and change perceptions.

AUTHOR Jasmine Argent is a Marketing and Communications Support Officer at Marion Libraries with a background in journalism and creative writing and a Graduate Diploma in Information Management.

Check out Marion Libraries’ social media at @cityofmarionlibraries.

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