The Footpath Library is delighted to announce the launch of its eLibrary program which will extend the organisation’s offering beyond physical books to an extensive catalogue of ebooks and audiobooks. The eLibrary will be delivered in collaboration with Wheelers Books, whose ePlatform already delivers thousands of titles to schools and public libraries across 21 countries. The program will initially launch in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.
The new digital library will allow The Footpath Library to provide free, high quality ebooks and audiobooks to an unlimited number of users. This will increase the reach of The Footpath Library to those who are unable to access its network of mobile libraries, including those in assisted housing, hostels and refuges, people attending community centres and other outreach programs.
With over 350,000 titles available, the eLibrary includes a wide range of books for children, teens and adults. Importantly, the library catalogue includes an extensive collection of teen wellbeing titles which will provide information and support to many of the most vulnerable members of the community.
To launch the eLibrary program, The Footpath Library has secured two partners for 2020-21. PAYCE Foundation has signed on as the Primary partner, donating $20,000. Sheargold Foundation is confirmed as the Major partner, donating $10,000.
Sarah Garnett, the Founder and Managing Director of The Footpath Library, said: ‘The eLibrary is a tremendous step for us in making books accessible to anyone who wants to read. Now you can pick up a book from one of our mobile services, or download one on your device. The eLibrary also provides us with an opportunity to work with other providers in the homelessness sector to reach those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We are very excited and grateful to be partnering with PAYCE and Sheargold on this program – both are foundations that recognise reading as a major contributor to a person’s wellbeing.’
PAYCE Foundation Director James Boyd said the eLibrary was an excellent initiative which would greatly assist vulnerable members of our society.
“We immediately loved the innovative nature of the eLibrary,” Mr Boyd said.
“All of our charity partners working with people who are experiencing homelessness or victims of domestic violence, have already shown great interest in the initiative.”
Lauren Sheargold, the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Sheargold Foundation, said: ‘We feel proud to be a part of the eLibrary program. Sheargold Foundation strongly believes by making education and knowledge more accessible to all, people will be able to gain the long-lasting tools to make a change in their life and the lives of those around them. Through this incredible eLibrary program, The Footpath Library is making books more accessible to those most vulnerable and therefore helping to move the dial on so many issues affecting our community.’
For further information please contact: Sarah Garnett, Founder and Managing Director
[email protected] / 0400 816 402