Published on Monday, 6 July 2026 at 2:20:57 PM
The Shire of Gingin is proud to announce that our Lancelin Library has been named the Small Regional Winner in the Library Board of Western Australia Awards for Innovation and Collaboration, recognising the library’s commitment to delivering innovative programs that strengthen community connection and lifelong learning.
Additionally, the Lancelin Library also received a Commendation in the State Library of Western Australia's North Family Early Literacy Award for its Noongar Seasons Early Literacy Backpacks project which is delivered by both our Lancelin and Gingin Public Libraries. The North Family Early Literacy Award celebrates outstanding early literacy initiatives delivered by public libraries across Western Australia, recognising programs that support children's speech, language and communication development while encouraging families to read, talk, sing and play together.
The Noongar Seasons Early Literacy Backpacks were developed in partnership with the State Library of Western Australia's Better Beginnings program and were designed to introduce children aged 0–3 years and their families to Noongar culture through stories, songs and interactive play.
Each backpack is themed around one of the six Noongar seasons (Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru, Djilba and Kambarang) and contains books, developmental play resources and activities. The Judges commented that this was a strong, culturally safe community initiative developed in conjunction with local Elders, educators, and environmental agencies with knowledge learned from other public library services. The program promotes the public library as a safe space for families now and in the future. It delivers early intervention in literacy where it is needed most and promotes Noongar culture.
These awards are a wonderful acknowledgement of our Library team's passion, creativity and commitment to delivering meaningful programs for the community. The Shire congratulates our Lancelin Library team on these outstanding achievements and thanks the State Library of Western Australia, the Better Beginnings program and all project partners for their support in bringing these initiatives to life.
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