Library News
Richmond Tweed Regional Library's Lauren Tearle wins the 2024 USU New Gen Committee and Active Super Apprentice/Trainee of the Year Award
Richmond Tweed Regional Library is proud to announce that Lauren Tearle, Trainee Library Assistant, has been recognised for exceptional dedication and achievement in both their studies and professional role as the recipient of the 2024 USU New Gen Committee and Active Super Apprentice/Trainee of the Year Award. Lauren has recently completed Certificate III in Library and Information Services, demonstrating a strong commitment to her future in the library profession through her outstanding performance in this degree.
Beyond their academic accomplishments, Lauren has made a significant impact in the workplace. As a young union member, their exemplary work ethic and proactive attitude have earned them widespread recognition. Lauren's award nomination received overwhelming support from colleagues with six nominations submitted—double the required number.
Lauren’s nominators said, “Lauren is an enthusiastic and willing worker, happy to accept any challenge with a positive attitude. She is fun to work with, has great customer service skills, and a strong willingness to learn”, and “Lauren brings a positive outlook to the workplace. She is a keen, fast learner with excellent people skills and has quickly become a favourite with customers”.
The United Services Union New Gen Committee in partnership with Active Super recognised Lauren as a very deserving recipient of this prestigious award. Lauren’s contributions and dedication exemplify the values of both the union and Richmond Tweed Regional Library. Lauren will continue to make a positive impact on the library service, having secured a permanent position as a Library Assistant.
Craig Yarrow
Acting Business Manager
Richmond Tweed Regional Library
craig.yarrow@rtrl.nsw.gov.au
02 6625 5100
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Lauren Tearle receives their award
L-R Kyle Loades Independent Chair Active Super, award recipient Lauren Tearle, Graeme Kelly OAM General Secretary USU, and Sharon Sewell Vice President USU
The RTRL Research and Family History Centre in Goonellabah is closed until further notice due to damage caused by recent rainfall. Goonellabah Library, Alstonville Library, the Lismore Pop-up Library, and the Lismore Children’s Library are open as usual.
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Your online library is available all day, every day at www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au/your-online-library.
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Craig Yarrow
Acting Business Manager
Richmond Tweed Regional Library
craig.yarrow@rtrl.nsw.gov.au
02 6621 2464
Due to multiple roof leaks during this extreme weather event, the Research and Family History Centre in Goonellabah is now closed. We reopen at usual times on Monday 19 August. All other libraries remain open at usual times.
Printing in the Lismore Area is available from Goonellabah Library on Oliver Avenue and the Lismore Pop-up Library on Molesworth Street.
Your online library is always available at www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au/your-online-library.
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Michael Lewis
Acting Business Manager
Richmond Tweed Regional Library
michael.lewis@rtrl.nsw.gov.au
02 6621 2464
Kingscliff Library is closed Monday 12 August for scheduled works. The Baby Time session is cancelled for this day. The library reopens as usual on Tuesday 13 August.
Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah libraries will be open during the closure, and the online library at www.rtrl.nsw.gov.au/your-online-library is available all day, every day.
Alana Choice
Acting Tweed Area Librarian
Richmond Tweed Regional Library
alana.choice@rtrl.nsw.gov.au
07 5536 3672
Ballina Library receives $198,376 for major facility enhancements
Ballina Council is excited to announce that it has been awarded $198,376 to upgrade Ballina Library facilities. This funding, part of the State Government’s $6 million Public Library Infrastructure Grant program, aims to transform the library into a more welcoming and versatile community space.The Ballina Library has long been a cornerstone of our community, offering essential services and programs that foster learning, creativity, and connection. With this new funding, the library will enhance its facilities to better meet the evolving needs of the community. The front counter will be updated, and new flooring and shelving installed.
"We are incredibly grateful for this generous grant, which will help us to better serve the Ballina community," said Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader "This funding will allow us to create a more welcoming, inclusive, and resource-rich environment for everyone who walks through our doors."
State Librarian Dr. Caroline Butler-Bowdon praised the NSW State Government initiative, stating, “Public libraries are welcoming to everyone and are such important free spaces, providing services that nourish education, literacy, culture, and recreation.”
The Public Library Infrastructure Grants program is administered by the State Library of NSW on behalf of the Library Council of NSW. This program underscores the government’s commitment to supporting public libraries as vital community hubs.
Craig Yarrow
Acting Business Manager
Richmond Tweed Regional Library
craig.yarrow@rtrl.nsw.gov.au
02 6625 5100
Celebrating 50 years of Richmond Tweed Regional Library
On 5 November 1973, Lismore City Council and Ballina Shire Council agreed to a joint provision of library services across our region—and Richmond Tweed Regional Library (RTRL) was born. It wasn’t long after, that Tweed, Byron, and Mullumbimby Councils joined the successful model which went on to become one of the largest regional library services in NSW. Our libraries currently provide access to knowledge, information, and entertainment to more than 200,000 Northern Rivers residents through its 12 static branches and a mobile library.Regional Library Manager, Lucy Kinsley said, “Over the years, the face of the library has transformed. Buildings have changed and staff have come and gone, having provided their own unique and invaluable contribution to this essential public service. Libraries are bustling, dynamic community meeting places, open to everyone. They’re filled with progressive minds and exciting opportunities. The success of our regional library service is due to the staff and the community.”
Lucy Kinsley also said, “In 2023, we say thank you to our supportive Councils, library users, communities, and staff. It’s the perfect time to visit your local library and help us celebrate by sharing your library experience.”
RTRL staff and family—past and present—are invited to express their interest in attending an official celebration in Ballina on Sunday 12 November 2023. Please email rtrl50years@rtrl.nsw.gov.au and more information will be provided. When posting your library memories to social media, please tag the library and use the hashtag #RTRL50.
Craig Yarrow
Acting Business Manager, Richmond Tweed Regional Library
craig.yarrow@rtrl.nsw.gov.au
02 6625 5100