How to Suggest a New Book or Program for the Library

Every public library is shaped by the people who walk through its doors, and Australian branches are no exception. Across cities from Brisbane to Hobart, regular patrons often hold the clearest view of what their collection lacks or what kind of program would draw a crowd. If you have spotted a gap on the shelves, there is a respectful way to put that suggestion forward.

Libraries tend to respond well to proposals that are specific, well-reasoned, and grounded in community interest. The process may feel informal, but collection-development teams welcome thoughtful input. Before reaching out, it helps to understand how Australian libraries operate and what language makes a request land well.

Find the right channel for your suggestion

Most Australian libraries accept feedback through several pathways. Start by checking the library's website, where you will often find a contact form, an email for the branch manager, or a dedicated acquisitions inbox. If your proposal is about programming rather than acquisitions, look for the community engagement team instead.

Drop in during staffed hours and ask at the front desk who handles collection requests. Librarians in regional and metropolitan branches alike often have internal systems for logging suggestions, and many will tell you outright whether a title has already been considered.

Write a clear and specific submission

A vague note asking the library to "get more books" rarely prompts action. Instead, name the title, author, publisher, and ideally the ISBN. If you are suggesting an Australian release, mention the local publisher such as Text Publishing, Allen & Unwin, or Hardie Grant, since librarians will already know which distributors they work with.

Keep your message polite and brief. A short paragraph explaining why the title matters, who in your family or community would read it, and any awards or reviews it has received gives the acquisitions team plenty to work with. Many Australian libraries follow guidelines set by the Australian Library and Information Association, which favour diversity, local relevance, and demonstrated community demand as key selection principles.

Tailor your idea to the community you live in

Before suggesting anything, think about who actually uses your branch. A reading club aimed at retirees in Adelaide will look quite different from one pitched at teenagers in Western Sydney. Consider local demographics, school holiday calendars, and seasonal rhythms. Australian libraries often run packed children's programs during the long summer break, and winter is a popular time for author talks and craft sessions.

Representation on the shelves matters too. A growing share of Australian publishing reflects migrant communities, First Nations voices, and bilingual readers, so if there is a gap you have noticed, saying so gives the library meaningful direction. Patrons keen to support collections through fundraising can also use a library wish list for community donors, which aligns book-buying with genuine local needs rather than guesswork.

Propose a whole program, not just a title

If you have spare time and energy, proposing a recurring program can be even more valuable than a single book recommendation. Think about sessions that complement existing initiatives, such as storytime for toddlers, coding clubs for tweens, or bilingual reading circles. Many libraries welcome volunteer-led sessions, particularly when they follow the library's volunteer policy and respect public liability insurance requirements.

Draft a one-page outline covering the target audience, session length, frequency, and any materials needed before pitching it. Well-prepared proposals like this are how many successful programs in cities from Melbourne to Perth first got off the ground, and they often pick up funding through state library grants as well.

Stay involved once your suggestion is in

Once your recommendation has been submitted, give the library time to respond. Acquisitions teams often meet monthly, and program calendars are locked in well before each season, so patience helps. If you do not hear back within a reasonable window, send a polite follow-up note or stop by the desk to ask.

Smaller contributions matter too. Many branches welcome help shelving returns, covering the desk during busy weekends, or writing short reviews for the library's newsletter. Regulars who already understand the rhythm of the branch are more likely to see their suggestions adopted.

Practical tips for a proposal that gets heard

• Reference the library's published collection or programming policy.
• Mention local demographics, school partnerships, or neighbourhood needs your idea supports.
• Quote reviews from trusted outlets such as The Conversation, Guardian Australia, or ABC Arts.
• Suggest a small initial run so staff can trial your idea.
• Offer to help promote the event through community noticeboards, school newsletters, or local footy club bulletins.
• Respect the Copyright Act 1968 when proposing any workshop content.

Libraries thrive on community involvement, and your continued presence helps staff see who their suggestions serve. Head to your nearest branch, ask how collection requests are handled, and remember that a well-framed proposal can shape what thousands of readers enjoy for years to come. To find more ways to support your local library or browse volunteer opportunities, visit the Crestline Friends of the Library homepage and get involved today.