Friends of the Ipswich Library Service (FOILS)

Other Projects and Activities

The involvement and contribution from the Friends group includes numerous other activities that benefit the Library Service and the general community, including:

• Librarians for Africa – Friends of Ipswich Library Service funded the full registration for one African Librarian ($650), to attend the 73rd International Federation of Library Associations’ (IFLA) World Library and Information Congress being held in Durban, South Africa. The Librarians for Africa project was organised by Latrobe University Library with the goal of raising funds to help African Librarians to attend the 2007 International Conference. Information on the project is available at http://www.lib.latrobe.edu.au/africa
• Purchase of Library Equipment - In 2007, $5,300 of funds raised from FOILS events was used to purchase stylish slatted display boards for the Redbank Plaza and Redbank Plains Library branches, and new signage equipment for Ipswich Library. These purchases were made in consultation with Library staff and were attractive and valuable additions to the libraries.
• Ipswich Festival Street Parade – Each year members of FOILS join with Library staff, young library members, and other volunteers, to bring a world of storybook characters to life through participation in the Ipswich Festival Street Parade, Ipswich’s largest community event, comprising more than 80 colourful floats and 1000 participants. Some of the great costumes and characters featured by Friends include Cat in the Hat, the Mad Hatter, Cruella de Vil, the Queen of Hearts and Mary Poppins. Friends are proud to be involved in this exciting community event that has resulted in bringing obvious enjoyment to young and old alike, and the Library winning the Best Community Entry for the 4th consecutive year in 2008.
• Theatre Nights - Friends organise a number of Theatre Nights each year with the aim of raising funds for further FOILS activities, while providing support to local performance groups such as the Ipswich Little Theatre and the Ipswich Musical Theatre Company. These nights are always great value and entertainment, and are open to anyone interested in being part of the Friends’ group booking. Further details are available on the current FOILS Calendar of Events, and tickets can be purchased approaching the event date.

For further information about Friends projects and activities, please:

Telephone: (07) 3810-6761 or

Email: cmoore@ipswich.qld.gov.au