Libraries for Health and Wellbeing: A Strategic Framework

Presented by Jacqui Horwood and Georgina Earl, State Library Victoria, Melbourne, Australia

Wednesday, September 1, 2023 | 5:00 pm

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Public libraries occupy a core and trusted position in communities across Victoria. The Libraries for Health and Wellbeing Program was established by the State Library Victoria and Public Libraries Victoria collaboration in 2020/21 in recognition of the key role that public libraries have in supporting the health and wellbeing of their communities.

This work has resulted in the development of the world-first Libraries for Health and Wellbeing Strategic Framework which has built a shared understanding in the sector of the role public libraries play in supporting health and wellbeing outcomes, highlighted opportunities for partnerships and identified priority areas for action.

During this webinar our presenters will discuss the development of the Libraries for Health and Wellbeing Framework and how it has shaped the thinking in libraries. Find out how you can use this resource to better understand why libraries have a role to play in health and wellbeing, and how using this framework can help guide decision making and action.

About the speakers:

Jacqui Horwood is the acting Head of the Library Sector Engagement team at State Library Victoria in Melbourne, Australia. Her focus is on the collaboration with Public Libraries Victoria and the promotion of the value and the impact it has on all libraries and their communities.

Georgina Earl is a Unit Manager of Library Services at Merri-bek City Council, she also serves as Secretary of the Public Libraries Victoria Executive Committee, and is a member of SLV Health and Wellbeing Working Group. Georgina has a special interest in how public libraries can ensure better health and wellbeing outcomes for marginalized community members.  Georgina was the recipient of the 2019 Barrett Reid Scholarship, which has led to implementation of a pilot Library Social Worker Program.  Merri-bek Libraries are currently running a health and wellbeing program for women through the SLV Health and Wellbeing Innovation Grant Program.