Friends of Ipswich Libraries celebrates 20 years
27 September 2021
Ipswich City Council and Friends of Ipswich Libraries (FOILS) group are joining together this month to celebrate the 20th anniversary of FOILS.
FOILS started in October 2001 and since then this enthusiastic group of library supporters has come together each month with the objective of enhancing and promoting the library service and strengthening its links with the community.
In consultation with council, FOILS organises community-based events and activities that help promote Ipswich Libraries and enrich the cultural life of the community.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Deputy Chair and Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann said 20 years is an important milestone for Friends of Ipswich Libraries.
“FOILS is an integral part of Ipswich and has contributed to the connectiveness of our community for the past 20 years,” Cr Kunzelmann said.
“The FOILS group has been hugely successful over the years with one of my favourite FOILS projects being Books for Babies, which is delivered in partnership with Ipswich Hospital and St Andrews Ipswich Hospital with the aim of introducing our youngest residents to Ipswich Libraries and reading from birth.
“It is a wonderful initiative that demonstrates our commitment to providing as many early learning opportunities as possible to children in Ipswich.
“I would like to take the opportunity to thank every member of FOILS for their contribution and time over the past 20 years and I look forward to what the next 20 years of FOILS will bring to our fast-growing community.”
Popular FOILS initiatives include the annual High Tea, Trivia Nights and Books for Babies, an early literacy project which involves every baby born at Ipswich hospitals being presented with a book and DVD gift pack aimed at promoting a love of reading.
FOILS currently has more than 50 members and newcomers to the group are always welcome
For more information about FOILS or to learn how to become a member click here.