It was a flurry of excitement at this year's Give the Gift of Reading handover party held on Monday 18 December at Playford Library, where more than 140 local legends, generously donated 531 books to AnglicareSA's Christmas hamper drive.
The brand-new books are included in AnglicareSA Christmas hampers along with other donated Christmas items and are gifted to individuals and families who are doing it tough.
Now in its twelfth year, the Give the Gift of Reading initiative has seen over 9,000 books make their way into Playford homes, promoting literacy and reading throughout the community.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said that Give the Gift of Reading speaks to the purpose of libraries and is playing a pivotal role in supporting the community's health and wellbeing.
"The gift of giving and providing equal access to books amongst the community is such a strong foundation of what libraries are about."
"It is always a wonderful way to wrap up the year for our library service, focusing on the importance of literacy and how much it benefits a person's mental and physical health.
"Many studies have shown that having books at home provides benefits including higher brain function, reduced stress and a gateway to adventure, fantastical worlds and knowledge.
"Bringing everyone together to celebrate this handover party is also a great way for our community to build connections," said Mayor Glenn Docherty.
The Give the Gift of Reading is an initiative started at the Playford Library and has seen multiple South Australian libraries adopt the project including in the areas of Marion, Victor Harbor, Norwood, Whyalla and more.
