Annemarie Doyle’s street library on Rossi Street in Yass has grown to nearly 200 books.
“Originally, they were my books, and I would’ve had about 50 books.”
“There is now a couple hundred,” she said.
Whilst commonly significant growth like this would come from a big donation, Annemarie described a community effort that helped fill the bookshelves.
“It’s been absolutely wonderful; they’ve responded extraordinarily.”
“The turnover is amazing, and the whole idea is people either take books and bring some more back of their own or return the books that they’ve taken,” said Doyle.
As for her inspiration for turning her front porch into a public library, Annemarie said it was something she’d always wanted to do.
Beginning in mid-year 2020, the book club has helped Annemarie feel at home in Yass.
“I have met some of the most delightful people.”
“I’m just blown away; Yass is just the most friendly, welcoming place,” said a grateful Doyle.
Rossi Street is Annemarie’s 38th home after a long career working for Foreign Affairs and the United Nations, which saw her travel across the globe.
She believes the street library to be her way of giving back to a hobby that has given her so much.
“Reading and editing are what I’ve done all my working life.”
It’s been one of the great joys of my life,” said Doyle.
Annemarie is particularly proud that she’s seen children borrowing books from her library and believes reading for them can be incredibly beneficial.
“Learning about the world around them, learning how to write properly and just broadening their world.”
“It’s fun; it’s just fun,” she said.
The street library is located at 106 Rossi Street. All are invited and encouraged to get involved in what is a great example of someone working to benefit our community in a small but effective way.
Max O’Driscoll
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