Learning and resources
Whether you’re exploring local history, researching a topic, helping with homework, building digital skills or looking for a quiet place to focus, the library offers trusted information, specialist collections and supportive services for all ages.
Local history and heritage
The library is a central repository for the history and heritage of the Hinchinbrook Shire and surrounding region.
The history of our community
The local history collection includes:
These collections preserve the stories, people and events that have shaped the Hinchinbrook community over time. Visit the library to explore in person.
Kennedy Regiment Library
Bequeathed to the Hinchinbrook Shire Library by local historian Capt. Bob Burla RFD, ED & Bars (RL) on behalf of the 31st Battalion Infantry Association, the Kennedy Regiment Library is a significant military history collection.
The collection supports research into:
It is an important custodial resource for both historians and the wider community. Visit the library to explore in person.
Research and homework help
The library supports students, researchers and lifelong learners with access to quality research tools and staff assistance.
Library staff can help with:
Support is available during library opening hours.
Online research resources
The library provides access to a range of trusted online research tools:
Ancestry Library Edition
Access a leading genealogy database with records from Australia, North America, the United Kingdom, Europe and more.
Trove
Explore collections from Australian libraries, museums, galleries and archives. Trove is free and available online at any time.
The Times Digital Archive
A full‑text archive of The Times newspaper from 1785 to 2014, providing over 200 years of global news coverage in its original published format.
These resources support academic study, personal research and historical discovery.
Technology help
The library offers support to help people build confidence using technology.
Library staff can assist with:
Technology help is available in a supportive, low‑pressure environment. Call (07) 4776 4614 for assistance or the best place to see what’s coming up is Council’s What’s On page.
Study spaces
Quiet study spaces are available within the library for:
Spaces are available during library opening hours and support individual study and reading. Call (07) 4776 4614 for assistance.
Reference services
Reference services help connect users with accurate and reliable information.
Library staff are available to help guide your search by calling (07) 4776 4614 or in person.
Special collections enquiries
For detailed enquiries relating to local history, military history, historical maps or photographs, the library offers a Special Collections Enquiry Service: