Book Week has rolled around once again, and for many families, it’s become synonymous with frantic costume preparations. For one mom, it has sparked plans for not just another dress-up, but also a bold statement about the state of school libraries.
Despite her background as a children’s book author, Melanie La’Brooy admits her kids have faced the dreaded "Walk of Shame" at past Book Weeks, donning throw-together costumes like Percy Jackson or Charlie Bucket. This year, she’s flipping the script, channeling the energy of her past ups and downs to inspire change.
La’Brooy recalls her household erupting with last-minute panic the night before the Book Week parade. Accusations of forgotten costumes and disorganization often fill the air, making it quite the spectacle.
This time, though, she’s ready with something special—an idea she calls "Operation Overdue." It’s not just about costumes; it’s about sending a message about the dire state of school libraries across Australia.
Participants of Book Week are expected to dress as librarians, which La’Brooy sees as both fun and impactful. This is not merely dress-up; it's about advocating for proper funding and attention to the underfunded yet invaluable resource of school libraries.
One of the motivations behind this idea is the alarming trend showing cuts to school library budgets and staffing. Recent surveys reveal over 25% of Australian school libraries made such cuts during the pandemic, leading to closures and reduced availability.
The problem of shrinking library services isn't just statistics for La’Brooy; it’s personal. She looks back fondly at the influence of her high school librarian, Ms. Boyd, whose initiatives included field trips and author talks, igniting her passion for writing.
She cites memorable moments from her school days, like hearing Roald Dahl speak and getting books signed by popular authors. These experiences, she believes, are what ignite dreams and aspirations for future generations.
Notably, the author Maryam Master shared her own experiences about how the school library provided her sanctuary upon moving to Australia. Similarly, other acclaimed authors have shared how libraries shaped their early love for reading.
La’Brooy emphasizes the critical role of qualified teacher librarians, calling their disappearing positions damaging to the educational system. It’s not just about books—they’re champions for literacy and creators of community within schools.
Operation Overdue aims to encourage parents and students to get creative with their librarian costumes. There’s no shortage of inspiration from books, with characters ranging from valiant warriors to whimsical animals.
To amplify their message, they plan to invite local politicians to participate in the Book Week festivities. This is not just play; it’s setting the stage for constructive discussions about library funding.
The grand plan includes transforming Book Week parades from joyful celebrations to vibrant protests. With signs demanding better library resources, parents and children alike can showcase their dedication to this cause.
After the celebrations, there are plans to deliver their concerns directly to the principal’s office and their local representatives. La’Brooy’s call to action aims to hold politicians accountable for maintaining adequate school resources.
Engaging the community extends beyond participation; it involves leveraging social media to spotlight the protest. By tagging local MPs and sharing the initiative online, the goal is to make noise about the critical need for library support.
Though Book Week is often seen as just another fun event, La’Brooy underscores it as the perfect opportunity to advocate for something substantial. The colorful parades and costumes will serve as the backdrop for action aimed at ensuring no school library is left behind.
La’Brooy’s innovative idea to turn Book Week’s whimsical costumes therapy for libraries represents not just creative parenting but strikes at the heart of the need for educational reform. She hopes this year will see change rather than more of the same disheartening trends in school library funding.
After years of witnessing inadequate resources, La’Brooy is ready to make this Book Week noteworthy, one librarian costume at a time. Her revolutionary stance mirrors broader societal issues surrounding education and community investment, reminding everyone to push for what our future learners critically need.
