Sharing library ideas across cultures

Published on 19 October 2026

Rosanna Library hosted a delegation of library and education professionals from Japan as part of their 2026 Australia Library Tour.

Rosanna was selected as a key stop on the tour because of its innovative service model, contemporary facility and strong community focus.

Delegates were particularly interested in learning how Yarra Plenty Regional Library (YPRL) operates as a regional service jointly owned by 3 municipalities, balancing regional collaboration with local community needs.

They were also keen to understand how Rosanna Library’s redevelopment, co-location with community services and position within a busy activity centre contribute to library use and community connection.

There was strong interest in how YPRL extends library services beyond its buildings through partnerships with schools, health services, community organisations and aged care providers, ensuring that the library remains accessible to people wherever they live, learn and connect.

A highlight of the visit was the opportunity to observe a Storytime session. For the delegates, it was their first experience seeing a public library Storytime in action.

It showed how Australian public libraries support early literacy, language development and family engagement in the reading journey. YPRL’s early years program includes Baby Storytime, Toddler Storytime, Preschool Storytime and family literacy initiatives.

Find a Storytime session at your local library.