Ten new street libraries throughout the area will foster a love of reading and strengthen neighbourhood ties.
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It is all thanks to a Port Macquarie-Hastings Council and Port Macquarie Hastings Library Service initiative, coupled with community enthusiasm to join the street library network.
A giveaway of 10 street library kits attracted 48 applications with judging based on the application quality and the geographic location.
There were five successful applicants in Port Macquarie, one in Kendall, two in Wauchope, one in Lake Cathie and one in Bonny Hills.
They each received a free street library kit.
Kim Porter is thrilled with the new street library at Port Macquarie's Wayfield Way.
"I had seen street libraries around and I thought it would be really great to have one in our neighbourhood and share the love of reading," she said.
Mrs Porter said it was a great experience to be involved with the street library initiative.
The Wayfield Way street library was launched during a street party.
Port Macquarie's Mill Hill also boasts a street library after Suzi Granger lodged a successful application.
"We thought it would be good for the community and we all love to read," she said.
Mrs Granger said the street library, which was unveiled by author Hayley Lawrence, seemed very popular.
Street libraries are easily accessible and act as an invitation to share the joys of reading.
There were five street libraries in Port Macquarie before the council giveaway.
Marketing and program librarian Kate Forrest said most of the 10 new street libraries had been installed.
"Street libraries really do become owned by the neighbourhood and people take care of them," she said.
Ms Forrest said street libraries promoted a love of reading and positive neighbourhood connections.
The successful applicants attended two workshops at the Mid North Coast Community College MakerSpace to construct and decorate the street libraries.
The street library community gathered to celebrate at Port Macquarie Library during Library Week.
The new street library locations are at 24 Mill Hill, 4 The Summit, 20 Hillcrest Avenue and 4 Wayfield Way in Port Macquarie; 85 Riverside Drive on Port Macquarie's North Shore; 63 Abel Tasman Drive in Lake Cathie; 996 Ocean Drive in Bonny Hills; 29 Graham Street in Kendall; 24 Azalea Avenue, Wauchope, and 3 Riverbreeze Drive at TG's Child Care Riverbreeze Campus in Wauchope.
Most of the new street libraries are up and running.
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