Dedicated After-Hours Student Space at Albany Public Library awarded at 2024 Library Board Awards

Albany’s librarians are among the most innovative in WA with their after-hours study space taking out a State Library Board Award in July. The After-Hours Student Study Space at the Albany Public Library was awarded the State Library Board Award for Innovation and Collaboration at the 2024 Library Board Awards on July 31. Open 24/7, equipped with a silent space, charging ports, and accessible only to students with a special card, the space offers itself as a safe late-night area with a reliable internet connection. Albany Senior High School student Lainey Hansom said she uses the after-hours centre at least once a week. “It’s nice to be in a sort of dedicated study space, with open windows and good appliances,” she said. “There’s no distractions like you have at home and it’s great for when you’re collaborating on group projects.” The initiative was opened in May 2023 and has been popular with dozens of school students using the facility every week. Albany mayor Greg Stocks praised the library staff, saying the space provided for the demand in central student meeting places. “This award is a testament to the forward-thinking and community-focused approach of Albany Public Library,” he said. “The After-Hours Student Study Space project is a shining example of how collaboration and innovation can address critical community needs and assist our youth to thrive. “We are incredibly proud of our library team and the positive impact this project has on our students and the wider community.” Albany Public Library was one of 11 to receive an award, announced in a presentation at the State Library of Western Australia.