Libraries helping communities come together and drive social cohesion

Published on 20 January 2026

Indigo Shire Libraries is participating in an exciting partnership between the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) and the Department of Home Affairs' Office for Social Cohesion to deliver Stronger Together, a diverse range of programs that help build stronger and more cohesive communities.

From January to April 2026, Indigo Shire Libraries will deliver six Stronger Together programs across Beechworth, Chiltern, Rutherglen, and Yackandandah libraries to audiences including families, seniors, youth, and people at risk of isolation.

Creative Communities Coordinator Penelope McGufficke said the initiative provides valuable support for the important community connection work that libraries do.

"Our libraries are safe, welcoming spaces where individuals and groups can gather for assistance, support, and foster friendships. Stronger Together enables us to expand our programming, giving more people across the shire a chance to connect with community," said Ms McGufficke.

The Office for Social Cohesion within the Department of Home Affairs is providing Indigo Shire Libraries with $9,900 to support the delivery of six programs designed to grow and strengthen connections, networks, and relationships across our community.

Programs include interactive Storytimes for families with young children, creative workshops for teens, educational sessions on countering misinformation, and a unique community mapping project where residents can share their stories and connections to place.

"This support is crucial and enables library staff to deliver enhanced programming that has very tangible benefits for our community," said Ms McGufficke. "These programs will help build shared understanding of the importance of cohesive communities and lay the groundwork to encourage togetherness in times of stress."

Indigo Shire Libraries is one of 115 public libraries across Australia participating in this important initiative, which will run until 30 April 2026.

To view more about this program and the events on offer, visit Stronger Together.