BERWICK STAR NEWS
Home » Book exchange busts lockdown boredom

Book exchange busts lockdown boredom

On a quiet street in old Berwick, a book exchange is keeping locals well-read over lockdown.

Wilson Street resident Barry set up the mini-library outside his unit in early 2020 to make use of the books that he and his wife Glenys had accumulated over the years.

“Rather than throw them out, I thought others might like to read them,” Barry explained.

He filled the fridge with the old tomes and painted the side with an outback scene inspired by the couple’s travels through the outback – also making use of his painting skills, which he hones as part of the Berwick Artists Society.

It wasn’t long before passers-by began to take interest in the book exchange, some keeping the books and others replacing them with new items.

Barry said there is now a regular changeover of novels, biographies, kids’ books and even the odd classic; he recently enjoyed reading The Count of Monte Cristo.

“During Covid shutdowns it’s nice to have something different to read when the choice is there,” Barry said.

Find the book exchange on Wilson Street in Berwick.

Digital Editions


  • Bears prey on the Bucks

    Bears prey on the Bucks

    Berwick ended dreams of a three-peat for Buckley Ridges after the Bears roared over the Bucks at Dandenong Park Oval on Sunday. Berwick became just…

More News

  • Partnerships for manufacturing future

    Partnerships for manufacturing future

    The South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance has joined forces to inspire the next generation of manufacturers in secure and reliable employment. The partnership with Bayside Glen Eira Kingston Local Learning…

  • Bittersweet celebrations of IWD

    Bittersweet celebrations of IWD

    Purchase this photo from Pic Store: 362841 Wellspring for Women opt for a delayed celebration of International Women’s Day to combine Eid ul Fitr and Holi celebrations at the end…

  • Free fun at Keysborough’s Big Picnic

    Free fun at Keysborough’s Big Picnic

    Pets and ground rugs are going to pack out Wachter Reserve for Keysborough’s Big Picnic. The park party has an expanded program of activities, performers, dog flyball antics, animal display…

  • Massaging the message: parlour makes changes after community concerns

    Massaging the message: parlour makes changes after community concerns

    VIP Massage has covered over its website address and a QR code link at its soon-to-open Dandenong shopfront after growing community concerns. The changes were visible on Tuesday morning (10…

  • Club honours donor legacy

    Club honours donor legacy

    A revived community group in Casey has celebrated its official inauguration, honouring the legacy of a local organ donor. The Smart Club of Melbourne Inc. held its inauguration ceremony on…