Australian Library and Information Association

The 2026 Census is right around the corner – and the Australian Bureau of Statistics is seeking support to help find Community Field Officers.

Community Field Officers help people from all cultures and communities to:

👩‍🏫 learn why the Census is important
🤔 ask questions
✍ get help completing their form.

These roles would be suited to someone with volunteer experience, social service background or people with experience working with and supporting:

✅ people living with disability
✅ people experiencing homelessness
✅ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
✅ people who speak a language other than English.

These temporary jobs may also be right for library staff looking for extra hours on a short-term basis.

Let’s help make sure everyone feels safe and respected when participating in the Census.

To find out more and apply, visit 👉 census.abs.gov.au/jobs

🌊📚 Make a splash with Spring Safe Storytime!

Spring Safe Storytime is back, and ALIA is proud to once again partner with Kids Alive do the Five to bring together a love of reading and vital water safety messages.

Last year, more than 700 organisations took part across Australia. Register now to access a free Supporters Kit packed with storybooks, activities, promotional materials and event resources to help you run a water safety-themed storytime this September and October.

Register by 15 August.

Find out more and register 👉 https://lnkd.in/gTPxMrB6

What difference can a great mentor make?

In this new reflection on the ALIA Mentoring Program in INCITE Online, mentee Jacinta Ward and mentor Martin Payne share their experiences of a mentoring partnership built on strategic thinking, practical problem-solving and professional trust.

For Jacinta, the program provided valuable guidance in navigating a new leadership role, developing a new Strategic Plan, and planning for a major new library facility. For Martin, the experience reinforced the value of reflective practice and demonstrated how mentoring can be a genuine two-way exchange of ideas and learning.

Their story highlights the impact of a well-matched mentoring relationship—not just on career development, but on confidence, decision-making and lasting professional connections.

If you've ever wondered whether the ALIA Mentoring Program is right for you, this is a great place to start.

Read the article 👉 https://lnkd.in/ghp92a_X

Learn more about the ALIA Mentoring Scheme 👉 https://lnkd.in/gMNPJDRU