Much more than just books

Images of dusty old books, stern-looking librarians and whispered conversations have long gone if the Bullsbrook Public Library is anything to go by.

Since moving into its new home at the Ethel Warren Community Centre in 2017, this rapidly expanding modern library has become a local community hub.

Many library members (it’s free to join) drop in to take their pick from the vast collection of printed books, audio books, DVDs and magazines available to borrow, while others come along to study, to use one of the computers, or to attend one of the many activities and workshops on offer.

“I especially love seeing the kids have such fun at our story-time and rhyme-time sessions,” says Sarah de Beaux, the library’s information and programs officer, who has lived and worked in Bullsbrook for many years.

“I remember many of the mums from the days when they were coming to the old library as children. Now they’re bringing their little ones and catching up with other mums for a coffee and a chat.”

Sarah has been part of the Bullsbrook library since 1984 when it was run as a small local service, just one day a week, out of the old school library at Bullsbrook College.

In 1998, it became Bullsbrook Community Library, moving into the school library’s new purpose-built premises, before outgrowing that and moving into a home of its own nearly four years ago.

“We’ve just been growing all the time and with Bullsbrook welcoming new residents at Kingsford it means we’re becoming even more of a meeting place. People come here to connect, not just borrow books,” Sarah says.

There’s something for all ages and interests, from Meerilinga playtime sessions for young families, to chess clubs, book clubs, sewing and quilting groups, card games, board games and computer classes. The Bullseye Youth Centre for 12-17-year-olds also meets at the library twice a week.

Local residents can pay their rates and pet licence fees at the library, a JP is available on Saturday mornings and there’s even help putting together a resume if you need it.

“If there’s something you’d like to see on offer at the library, let us know. We’re always keen to hear ideas that we can add to the program,” Sarah says.

For a full run-down of what’s on offer at Bullsbrook Public Library in the coming months, visit www.swan.wa.gov/Your-Services/libraries