Young book lovers at Helensvale Library received a special surprise this week when Australian sporting icon Ash Barty dropped in for a Toddler Time reading session.
The former world number one tennis player visited the newly refurbished library as an ambassador for the First 5 Forever program, a Queensland Government initiative that promotes early childhood literacy through talking, reading, singing and play.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate welcomed the visit, describing it as a valuable opportunity to highlight the free programs offered through the city’s libraries.
“It’s an honour to have Ash Barty visit our new-look Helensvale Library,” Mayor Tate said, praising library staff for delivering educational activities to hundreds of children each week.
Barty said she was proud to support the initiative and encourage families to help children build strong foundations for learning from an early age.
The visit also showcased the recently renovated Helensvale Library, which reopened earlier this month following an eight-month refurbishment. The $4.8 million upgrade included improved facilities, refreshed interiors, expanded community spaces and a redesigned children’s area featuring colourful, accessible learning environments.
The library now offers enhanced creative spaces, including artist corners and residency areas for local creatives, while continuing to serve more than 15,000 visitors each month.
Since launching in 2015, First 5 Forever has reached families across Queensland through more than 325 public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres, helping prepare children for lifelong learning and school success.
Image source: goldcoast.qld.gov.au