More than books: How books can build identity and belonging in remote Communities

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation’s Book Supply program is one of the most impactful book distribution programs offered to remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities across the country.

The program provides families with direct access to high-quality culturally-relevant books, helping to place meaningful stories into the hands of children and Communities.

The Book Supply collection is a carefully curated selection of culturally relevant Indigenous books, with 65% of titles authored/and or illustrated by First Nations creators, ensuring authentic voices and perspectives are centred.  

Schools, health centres, women's centres, and Community organisations working in remote areas can apply for ILF’s Book Supply packs.

The packs are also categorised to support different age groups including toddlers, kids (big and little), as well as young adults, ensuring children and families receive books that are engaging, age-appropriate and culturally relevant.

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School in the Torres Strait Islands is just one of 500+ remote Communities that access ILF’s Book Supply program.

“Through fundraising, organising and distributing books to our campus on Kirriri and Waiben (Hammond Island/ Thursday Island), Zendath Kes, the Foundation has helped fill our learning spaces with high-quality, beautifully written and illustrated books by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors and artists”, says Teacher, Kirsty Young.

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“Our classrooms have been lit up with curiosity, conversation and joy. When children see themselves, their families, their Communities and their cultures represented in books, they know that their identities, experiences and stories matter.”

“These books do more than support literacy. They strengthen pride, identity and belonging while encouraging our children to become strong, proud and confident readers. They also help keep important cultures, languages and stories alive for future generations”.

Through access to culturally relevant books, ILF helps children and families see themselves, their languages, their cultures and experiences reflected in the stories they read. These programs support literacy development, strengthen First Languages and provide opportunities for Communities to share knowledge, culture, and stories across generations.

“From the bottom of our hearts; Au Esoau, Koeyma Eso. And many thanks to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation for supporting our children and Communities”.