Reference:

Bent, M., Scopes, M., & Senior, K. (2008). Discrete library services for international students: how can exclusivity lead to inclusivity?. Libraries Without Walls 7: Exploring’anywhere, Anytime’Delivery of Library Services, 5, 205.

Good reminder that access to good libraries is a huge privilege – and their lack a huge disadvantage.

Thank you, China, for this interesting reflection how our use of libraries develops and changes over the life course.

Thanks, MJ! I would think of bilingual story time as an inclusive practice. It’s wonderful that Strathfield Library has Korean story time.
Btw, becoming a member of a public library should not be difficult – it’s free and all you need to show is ID to sign up.

Good to hear you discovered a book that changed your life; and that you have such a good time in Macquarie Library.

Really sad when you live in a library and book desert 🙁

Sorry to hear you had a bad experience with librarians – wonderful people on the whole. Just a shout-out to librarians whose work and care is the basis of libraries as inclusive spaces.

In the days before electronic gates, how to deal with patron’s bags was definitely an issue. In addition to lockers, I remember libraries where staff would take a look at the inside of your bag before you could leave and I also remember honor systems. My high school library was such a a place: we could come and go freely and were trusted not to steal. I’m not aware that anything ever went amiss. As a rule, people live up – or down – to expectations …

For good reason, access to libraries and books is considered a development index.

A bit off topic, but there is a whale museum in Eden on the NSW south coast 🐳

In my childhood and now, whether in Korea, or in Sydney, libraries have always been open to anyone. Anyone can enter and read books comfortably and use the facilities such as toilets, desks and chairs in the library. When I traveled to Sydney, I had free access to library events and promotions, such as story time for children and conversation clubs for adults. However, to borrow books, I needed to sign up for a membership, which was an exclusive practice I first encountered there. At the Strathfield library, where I often go, there are many Korean, and bilingual story time is offered in both Korean and English. This could be seen as an exclusive practice for visitors who speak other languages. I tried using the app “borrow box” for my daughter, but it is also required a library membership. However, with the help of a librarian, I can use the facilities and wider programs of the library online and offline. The library has become a shelter and playground for my family, and my family’s small goal is to visit as many local libraries as possible while in Sydney.

Libraries serves as an essential resources for accessing information, learning and engagement, and i use for researching data, accessing eBooks and digital resources as it provides wider ranges of varieties. Inclusively libraries provides a variety of free resources, such as computers, books and database, so everyone can use them regardless of their financial situation . People from all walks of life can profit from educational resources and technology because of inclusion. Furthermore, libraries provide a variety of programming that appeals to different demographics, including children, the elderly, and nonnative speakers including workshops and language classes. on the other hand, exclusive practices like limited access to certain data and materials to library menbers and residents can excludes others who might need them, some libraries might not have services and facilities for special needs children.

In my undergraduate years, I enjoyed frequently visiting the university library, one of the largest in the entire country, known for its wide range of resources. However, a unique policy I have noticed in this library back home is the need to store my personal belongings in a locker. I understand that this restriction was put in place to prevent thefts and to keep the library clean and peaceful but it became frustrating when I needed to get an item from the locker, particularly if I had forgotten anything and had to go down three flights of stairs. Many of my friends didn’t visit the library due to the hassle of leaving and later collecting their belongings.

My master’s program at Macquarie University started a new chapter in my life, the enormity of Macquarie’s library left me amazed. I found the interior design quite welcoming. The modern, peaceful study areas are perfect for solo and group tasks. The private and group study rooms together with modern facilities left me in awe. Macquarie’s library has greatly improved my educational experience, creating an inclusive and knowledgeable setting that supports students completely. The wide range of scholarly books, journals, and electronic resources makes it an ideal environment for any researcher or student.