‘It is a pleasure to be involved in raising funds for THE INDIGENOUS LITERACY FOUNDATION.
At Genazzano FCJ College social justice issues are an integral aspect of the school's
educational objectives. ILF allows the girls to be involved in a very hands-on way
with raising awareness and more practically, funds for communities of Australians
who are in need. As a library service, it is important to us that we see a strong
link between these fundraising efforts and the value we place on literacy in the
lives of all young Australians.’
Dr Susan La Marca
Head of Library and Information Services
Genazzano FCJ College, Victoria
‘The Great Book Swap is a real winner for everybody. Children of all ages find great
joy in sharing their favorite books with others. All the swappers pick up a bargain
that will give them endless pleasure as they read it and we all make a real contribution
to closing the gap in Indigenous literacy. Make a date for the Great Book Swap at
your school.’
Norm Hart
State President
Queensland Association of State School Principals Inc
‘The Great Book Swap is a fantastic idea - to give away something as precious as
a book you have loved requires thought and generosity. I know some girls agonised
for days but knowing that you are raising money to buy books for children who have
not had the same access to literature, and getting a book for yourself into the
bargain that might one day be a new favourite, is very special.’
Jacquie Harvey
Deputy Head Junior School
Abbotsleigh, NSW
‘I've been a T-L for 20 years in many and varied locations and have never experienced
such enthusiasm and excitement for books as I did on our ILF morning. The library
was a mosh pit! The whole event was too easy to organize. There were a tables for
adults, teens, tweens and younger readers. Everyone went away happy as there is
nothing as satisfying as owning a book. An obvious outcome is that as a community
we're contributing to literacy in the indigenous community, but also it brought
parents into the library and children had ownership of a book. A win win all around.’
Andrea Anderson
Teacher Librarian
Seven Hills State School, QLD
‘The Indigenous Literacy Foundation was enthusiastically embraced by our students as
they realised the value of literacy for all Australians. The Great Book Swap dovetailed
into both our Boys and Books program and the community awareness component of Pastoral
Care. It certainly raised the boys’ consciousness of indigenous cultural issues.
The Indigenous Literacy Foundation culminated in a visit from indigenous elder, Max
Harrison, who shared his stories in a valuable exchange of ideas and cultural concepts.’
Dr Roderic Kefford
Headmaster
Barker College
‘Whilst celebrating the CBCA Book Week theme 'Across the Story Bridge' this year
our students were asked to consider others who may live in a world without books.
Our community found much joy from being part of this project and making a contribution
to bridging the literacy gap. We would encourage other schools to join us in 2011!’
Gai Dennett
Head of Resource Centre
Canberra Grammar School
‘Our school thoroughly enjoyed the great book swap. It was a fabulous opportunity
for all children (K - 6) to go home with a book of their choice and to raise money
for children with less access to books. There was a buzz of excitement in the air
on the afternoon of the swap. The older children took charge of the display and
the money collection (overseen by a teacher of course) which was a hands on responsibility
they enjoyed. Parents, teachers and staff also participated.’
Frances Meredith
Teacher
Glen Huon Primary School
‘The Somerset Celebration of Literature, through the Librarians’ Conference and
the Writers’ Festival, is proud to be associated with a venture that as relevant
and effective and worthy in its contribution to empowering indigenous communities
as the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. We would hope that the association between Somerset
College and the Indigenous Literacy Foundation continues to grow over the coming years.’
Michael Brohier
Chairperson
Somerset Celebration of Literature / Deputy Headmaster