Community urged to connect via free Citylibraries membership

A suite of new, locally-inspired Citylibraries membership cards has been launched, with Townsville City Council urging locals to sign up and enjoy the social, educational and wellbeing benefits that come with a free library membership.

The series of five colourful cards, designed by Townsvillians, captures the library experiences, beautiful landscapes, and uniqueness of life in the North Queensland capital.

Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto said the refreshed cards were a great opportunity to highlight the important role Citylibraries play in supporting community connection across Townsville.

Councillor Dametto said he was one of the newest holders of a library membership in the city – something he was very excited about.

“Our libraries are hives of activity, with visitation across all three branches and our mobile library van totalling almost 400,000 in 2025,” Cr Dametto said.

“They offer so much more than books on shelves and are a welcoming space where people of all ages can learn, connect, participate in programs, try out new technology and feel like they are part of a community.”

The Mayor urged community members not connected to a Citylibraries branch to consider checking out their local.

“I, for one, am a Townsville resident who hasn’t made the most of what’s on offer at our libraries, but I am very happy to have now signed up for a membership,” Cr Dametto said.

“I want to remind people that your local library, whether at Flinders Street, Aitkenvale or Riverway, are there for the benefit of all residents to utilise.”

Citylibraries membership is completely free for locals and provides access to:

• Thousands of books, magazines and DVDs
• Digital collections, including eBooks, audiobooks, movies and online learning
• Workshops, book clubs, children’s programs and community events
• Quiet study spaces and public computers
• Creative and technology resources like 3D printers, recording equipment and more.

Residents can join at any Citylibraries branch or online via the Townsville Citylibraries web page.