South Australians are being invited to vote for their favourite public library among the finalists shortlisted for the 2026 Jim Crawford Award for Innovation in Libraries.
The award, which is presented every two years, celebrates the people, projects and services finding new ways to help public libraries meet the changing needs of their communities.
This year’s four finalists have been chosen for the innovative ways their libraries are bringing people together, supporting vulnerable residents and helping children develop a love of learning.
The finalists are:
- City of Charles Sturt – Ngutungka West Lakes and Ngutungka Henley are reimagining what a public library can be.
- Light Regional Council – An innovative council-led program helping families and giving children a brighter start through books.
- City of Adelaide and City of Salisbury – Social Work in libraries bringing specialist support to the heart of the community.
- City of Onkaparinga – Library After Dark which is a place for young people to make connections, socialise and get creative.
LGA South Australia President, Mayor Heather Holmes-Ross said the Jim Crawford Award – which honours the respected former city councillor and Libraries Board of South Australia Chair – is a chance to recognise how good libraries are, and the important role they play in communities across the state.
“Public libraries make a daily difference in ways that reach well beyond their walls, offering support to families, young people, spots to study and learn, and help to people experiencing hardship or feeling socially isolated,” Mayor Holmes-Ross said.
“Councils are constantly innovating and evolving the ways their libraries can support people of all ages to learn new skills, access services, connect with others and feel part of their local community.
“This year’s finalists show the many ways libraries are responding to local needs and making a real difference in people’s lives.”
South Australia has more than 140 public libraries providing essential services for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Over the past year, LGA’s How Good Are Libraries campaign has highlighted the significant social and economic value these services deliver, with libraries returning nearly $3 in value for every $1 invested.
Mayor Holmes-Ross said voting in the Jim Crawford Award for Innovation in Libraries takes just a couple of minutes and encouraged South Australians to have their say.
“Every community has a library with a story worth celebrating and these finalists are great examples of success,” she said.
“I encourage everyone to take a moment to explore the projects and cast your vote.”
The Jim Crawford Award for Innovation in Libraries offers a $10,000 prize to the winning project.
The Award is presented alongside the Jim Crawford Family Trust and Public Libraries SA, which together with LGA have a representative on the judging panel to shortlist the finalists.
Voting can be completed through LGA’s website and remains open until 11.59pm on Sunday 15 November.
Cast your vote: lga.sa.gov.au/vote-now. Learn more about the Jim Crawford Award: lga.sa.gov.au/library-award.
