New website a one-stop shop for support services info

Fraser Coast Regional Council has developed a new user-friendly website to help residents easily access up-to-date information on local welfare, mental health, employment and other community support services.

Director of Strategy, Community and Development Gerard Carlyon said The Little Library website - https://thelittlelibrary.com.au - combined various existing resources into a searchable online platform making it a one-stop-shop for community support services information.

“Council previously produced a range of ‘Little Books’ to assist different sectors of the community,” he said.

“Examples included The Little Lime Pocket Book, which is a guide to local welfare and support services; The Little Blue Book, which is a mental health resource for teenagers and young adults;  and The Little Black Book, which is produced in partnership with Fraser Coast Mates to assist men.

“There is also The Little Orange Book, a guide to volunteering on the Fraser Coast.

“While the Little Books proved popular, the information was spread across different resources, couldn’t be easily searched online and could become out of date quickly.

“That’s why we’ve transformed our Little Books into a new user-friendly website.”

Karla Steen, Coordinator of the new Connecting Communities Social Prescription program at the Urangan Community Wellness Centre, said the online database would enable anyone looking for information on clubs, groups or services to access relevant and current information.

“Social isolation and loneliness affect many of our community members and having information on the opportunities to connect socially will be beneficial to local residents and visitors,” she said.

“Whether you need help to work out what to study, tips on family budgeting, mental health resources or housing support, all the information you need is now at your fingertips,” Mr Carlyon said.

Residents can explore a comprehensive online directory of local support services and resources, with advanced search filters to help you find what you are looking for.

Mr Carlyon said Council was committed to creating connected, inclusive communities through our places, spaces, and people.

“Local community and social services can also add their details to the online directory here - https://thelittlelibrary.com.au/contact/,” he said.

“The Little Library website is a valuable new resource to help connect community members with the support they need when they need it.”

The Little Library website is now live and available at https://thelittlelibrary.com.au/