It’s Local Government Week, an event dedicated to the important work councils do for their communities. To acknowledge our dedicated staff, we are sharing with you a bit about them and how they help you in Kempsey Shire.
Meet Melanie, the Children’s and Youth Services Librarian for Kempsey Shire Libraries. In her spare time, you’ll find her appreciating the Macleay Valley area and its sense of community.
“The beautiful beaches around here are a real highlight and there’s nothing more that I love doing than floating down the stunning creeks like in Crescent Head on a hot summer day.”
Melanie has brought passion in delivering many important services to younger residents to help develop their reading, literacy and social skills, including presenting Storytime sessions, coordinating Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and running arts and crafts events.
“I love my job because no two days are the same. One day you’ll find me completing general librarian duties, and the next day I’ll be delivering creative and engaging programs for children and schools in the area.”
“My dream job as a child was to be an artist and I love that I get to inspire an interest in art in Kempsey kids through my school holiday and youth programs. In my role, I have presented a Paint & Sip class with bubble tea, started a Book Week art competition and organised a visit from award-winning author and illustrator Sami Bayly.”
A big passion for Melanie is providing younger residents with access to high-quality resources that are important for learning and entertainment.
“My role is inspiring a love of reading and learning in local young people, as well as creating a safe and engaging space in the library for them to hang out.”
Like the whole of Council, the Kempsey Shire Libraries team are incredibly dedicated to serving residents with vital services.
“I really enjoy working with my team as they are all extremely knowledgeable, hardworking, dedicated to our customers and bound by our shared love of cake – and books of course!”
Melanie is one of more than 300 Council staff working hard every day to provide an enormous number of services to residents.
