After working in a temporary role for almost 12 months, Madison took over the reins at our local library in late 2015. She has a dual role as the Walcha Library services coordinator and Walcha Council youth worker.

Madison works Thursday and Friday at the library and is also currently undertaking a Bachelor of Education at the University of New England. She says community libraries today provide a myriad of resources and for library staff, no one day is the same.

“My main duties at the library revolve around customer service. This includes meeting and greeting members and visitors to the library and assisting them with enquiries and providing general library and information services,” said Madison.

“My day could involve anything, for example pre-school storytime, Tech Savvy Senior classes, book club gatherings, completing grant applications to assist with new programmes and resources, and the collection of items suitable for house-bound borrowers for delivery by Walcha Quota Club.

Many people in the community are unaware of the many library services offered by Walcha Council according to Madison, and she finds this one of the most challenging aspects of her job.

“I would like to see all community members come for a visit and meet Cassandra (Walcha library assistant) and myself. We can show you around and introduce you to the great things on offer not only at our library, but all public libraries,” said Madison.

“Libraries are  welcoming places that bring people together who share a common passion for reading and literacy, as well as provide a socially inclusive space to take part in a variety of programs and activities. Most of the library’s services are offered to our members free of charge.”

Walcha library has unlimited access to information services through its membership of Central Northern Libraries and the Public Libraries NSW support network.

“Your free membership gives you direct access to the Public Libraries of NSW,” said Madison.

“You can borrow and access: music CD’s;  DVD’s; music and audio book downloads; databases for hundred of topics; the internet as well as shelves of the latest best sellers, student guides, travel and reference material.”

The difference public libraries make to the quality of life for community members is immeasurable in Madison’s opinion.

“To be part of this in a town like Walcha is one of my favourite aspects of the job,” she said.

“I meet so many people from the community and visitors from all over, and the positive interaction with them all makes my job one of the best there is.”