Digital safety is one of the most important protection issues in communities across Australia and Gunnedah Shire Library is joining the fight with the unveiling of an eSmart Library plaque today in conjunction with National Child Protection Week (4-8 September) and eSmart Library Week.

eSmart Libraries is one of the most significant community cyber safety programs ever undertaken in Australia, with over one-third of all libraries in Australia currently involved in the program. The program recognises Gunnedah Shire Library as equipped to support its customers to use technology in a smart, safe and responsible way.

Councillor Ann Luke unveiled the eSmart plaque on behalf of Gunnedah Shire Council.

“The Library staff have worked hard to achieve this status and with technology readily available to everyone, including young people, I am glad we are able to provide this great service to our community. It is also a great example of what can be achieved by a smaller regional Library,” Cr Luke said.

“I’ll be taking a copy of the Little Black Book of Scams, because we can all do with being up-to-date with what is around. As part of the service these books are available free at the Library.”

eSmart is an initiative of the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, a national charity which works to protect children from violence.

“eSmart Libraries is one of the most significant community cyber safety programs ever undertaken in Australia, with over one-third of all libraries in Australia currently involved in the program,” Gunnedah Shire Council Librarian Christiane Birkett said.

“Gunnedah Shire Library is the 1st library in the north east zone, 4th library in NSW, 6th regional library service in Australia, and the 26th library service in Australia to become recognised as an eSmart library.

Photo caption (1): Gunnedah Shire Library staff Christiane Birkett, Yvonne Reading, Fiona Sills, Robyn Draper, and Councillor Ann Luke at the unveiling of the eSmart plaque.

Photo caption (2): Members of Gunnedah Shire Library’s Brain Training group at the unveiling.

Photo caption (3): Gunnedah Shire Library has an information stand on ways to become eSmart.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.