COMMUNITY NEWS - Books are only half the story

Behind the shady trees of RSL Memorial Park, the Mapleton Library Community Centre is more than just a place to borrow books — it’s in the heart of the community. Yes, there are over 10,000 books and magazines to choose from (a $12 annual membership lets you borrow up to 10 at a time), but the real magic happens beyond the shelves.

The centre is alive with activity almost every day. You might find a Justice of the Peace helping with paperwork, locals getting creative, a bingo game, or neighbours pitching in to complete a jigsaw puzzle. (Pictured are members of the local bingo group.)

The Thursday morning Art Group is a real highlight, not just for their regular meet-ups but for their involvement in community projects like the Mapleton Art Trail — a guide to local artworks in public spaces. 

It’s also a drop-off point for all sorts of hard-to-recycle items — toothbrushes, pens, blister packs, plastic bottle tops and even old spectacles — keeping them out of landfill, and aluminium ring pulls from drink cans help buy a mobility device for a child. With collection bins on the front deck, you can leave items anytime, rain or shine.

The Centre also hires out its space for just $20 an hour, complete with tables, chairs and a kitchenette — perfect for small workshops or community get-togethers of up to 50 people.

Not bad for a place that’s been completely volunteer-run and community-owned since it first opened its doors on Obi Obi Road back in 1992! Relying entirely on local support, volunteer fundraising and community grants, as a registered charity, tax-deductible donations are welcome and help keep the doors open.

“It’s more than a library — it’s a meeting place, a valued resource, and a reflection of our community spirit,” says Centre President, Nita Lester. For more details, visit mapletonlibrary.au.