New podcast shares how libraries bring people together

How do public libraries fight racism? Can you be addicted to books? What’s it really like to be a librarian?

The new Castlemaine-made podcast and radio series Meet Me at the Library, aims to find out.

Hosted and produced by Anne-Marie Middlemast each episode takes listeners inside various public libraries across Central Victoria to find out how these remarkable spaces bring us together.

“I’m a proud card-carrying member of my local library, and amazed by the services that they manage to deliver,” said Ms Middlemast.

“The public library really is a community lounge room – it’s a welcoming place full of possibilities, where you don’t have to spend a cent to enjoy yourself.”

The season will be broadcast on Castlemaine community radio station 94.9 MAINfm, beginning at 8.30am on Thursday 12 November.

Meet Me at the Library will also be available to download as a podcast, via iTunes, Spotify Apple Podcasts, and other podcast sharing platforms.

Throughout the series, listeners will meet a range of wise, witty and colourful characters who've each got a very different story to tell about why they love their public library.

From the keyboard warrior using the library’s free wi-fi to help reunite separated families, through to the reformed smoker who’s replaced cigarettes with books, you’ll find out why these surprising, creative and vibrant places – our public libraries – are more important than ever.

“Each episode is focused on a particular character, and explores a range of themes, including grief, friendship, isolation, and loneliness,” said Ms Middlemast.

“The main idea being teased out throughout the series is how public libraries bring us together, and in the process, help create vital connections with a community.”

Meet Me at the Library is produced with the assistance of the Community Broadcasting Foundation, and supported by Goldfields Libraries.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @MeetMeattheLibraryPodcast.