By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
WHEN Carol Bathie began working at Hampton Park Library a decade ago she couldn’t have predicted the progress the institution would make.
On the eve of the library’s 10th birthday celebrations on Saturday 22 February, Carol has had time to reflect on how much it has embraced technology and how much wider its user base is from when it started.
Carol, who has worked at the library since it opened in 2004 and been a team leader since 2007, said the Casey community had welcomed the library’s growth.
“We had an extension to our building in 2010 and have been able to increase the amount of technology for the community to use,” she said.
“We opened with six public access computers and now we have 16 in response to the high demand.
“Free wi-fi has also been a great innovation.”
As well as the increased technology, Carol also spoke highly of the widespread programs the library had been able to offer throughout the decade, including reading clubs for kids, school holiday activities, sponsor programs and everyone’s favourite Book Café.
“I love the dynamics of the Hampton Park Library. It’s a culturally diverse area and I really enjoy that,” Carol said.
“I like dealing with a lot of different people with a lot of different needs.
“The age group is also dynamic; the young people make it quite vibrant.
“We offer a lot of interesting stuff for kids.”
To celebrate the library’s 10th birthday, a range of events have been organised for the special day.
In the morning an official speech will kick off proceedings, followed by a cake cutting and story time.
A sausage sizzle, face painting and discussions with a hand henna artist will follow shortly after, before the Afghan Girls Dance Group and the Jam Tarts Trio showcase their musical talents.
Carol said it will be a fantastic way to commemorate what has been a wonderful 10 years for the Hampton Park Library.
“We now do in the vicinity of 25,000 loans in a month.
“When we opened we only had four staff and now we have 12,” she said.
“We wouldn’t get increased staff unless we need it.”
For more information contact Hampton Park Library on 9702 9744.
