Collections
As well as the usual books, magazines, and newspapers, the Library also contains some more specialised collections. Public libraries are a partnership between Local Government and the Queensland Government through State Library of Queensland. Collections are supported through the Public Library Grant. The Library Collection Development Policy(PDF, 186KB) provides the framework for the acquisition and maintenance of the Library's collections.
Local History
If you are conducting any local or family research, the local history area at the library may be a place to visit. There are local history books, books written by Burdekin locals, photos and other material available containing local information. We are committed to conserving print and photograph materials that document our region’s past, and welcome donations to the collection. Items from this collection are available for use in the library and are not available for loan.
Photographs
The Burdekin Library has a large collection of historical images of the region recorded in the library catalogue. Some images are available to view online through the library catalogue. All are available to view in person at the Burdekin Library.
In the catalogue you can search for a specific image by entering your search terms, e.g. Burdekin Bridge, Brandon Post Office, floods, etc. When the results display, select the "Image" filter from the left side of the screen and "Apply".
Popular searches include:
- Burdekin Bridge
- Queen Street
- Floods
- Sugar Mill
- Sugar Cane
- Home Hill
- Brandon
If you have any images or photographs that you think are important to the history of the Burdekin region, please bring them in for us to scan and include in our collection. Your photographs will be returned to you after we have scanned them, which won’t take long!
Microfiche and Microfilm
The following items can be viewed on the microfiche reader in the Burdekin Library (Ayr):
- The Advocate, Delta Advocate and Burdekin Advocate from 1924-2020 on microfilm (incomplete)
- The Home Hill Observer from 1923-2014 on microfilm (incomplete)
- The Port Denison (Bowen) papers from 1864-1910 on microfilm
- Queensland births, deaths and marriage records on microfiche
- Queensland State Archives shipping registers from the 1860′s until the early 1900′s on microfiche.
The most recent hard copies of The Burdekin Local News are also available in the Burdekin Library.
Audiovisual
Explore our range of adult and junior DVDs, and audiobooks — perfect for entertainment, learning, or relaxing.
Available at both Ayr and Home Hill branches, there's something for every age and interest.
Burdekin Library (Ayr) also houses a small collection of music CDs.
World Languages
These foreign language books (Languages Other Than English) are on loan to the Library from the State Library of Queensland. The collections are swapped as the need arises. These items are mostly adult-level, but some junior material is also available. If we do not currently stock a language of interest to you, please enquire at the front desk. We only order languages which are specifically requested.
Large Print Books
Large Print books feature bigger, clearer text — perfect for readers who find standard print hard to read.
Available at both Ayr and Home Hill branches, the collection includes a wide range of popular and classic titles to suit all tastes.
Graphic Novels
Explore the exciting world of graphic novels and manga — where bold artwork meets great storytelling!
Our collection includes:
- Junior Graphic Novels
- Junior Manga
- Young Adult Graphic Novels
- Young Adult Manga
These comic-style books cover everything from superheroes and fantasy to slice-of-life and adventure. Whether you're a longtime fan or just curious, there's something for everyone.
Available at both branches — come and discover your next favourite read!
Wonderbooks
Make storytime even more magical with Wonderbooks — print books with a built-in, ready-to-play audiobook!
Kids simply press play to read along with their favourite stories, building confidence and improving literacy skills while enjoying an immersive reading experience.
The Wonderbook collection is housed at the Burdekin Library (Ayr) and is available for loan:
- Loan period: 1 week
- Limit: 2 Wonderbooks per loan
Perfect for home reading, car trips, or quiet time, Wonderbooks make reading fun and accessible for all ages.