Ipswich Libraries is marking an incredible milestone this week with celebrations for its 175th anniversary, recognising the city’s proud literary and cultural history.
Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle said the milestone highlights the vital role libraries continue to play in the community. “Ipswich residents love to read and interact in our libraries, and attendance levels remain very high,” she said.
Ipswich’s first library opened in September 1850 on the corner of Wharf and Brisbane streets. It housed newspapers from Moreton Bay, Sydney and Melbourne, and locals donated volumes while waiting for new books to arrive from Sydney. Today, Ipswich Libraries operates from seven locations across the city, offering innovative programs and services.
As part of the anniversary, rare historical items are on display, including digitised editions of Ipswich Hunt — a handwritten monthly magazine from the city’s earliest reading rooms. The collection has been preserved with support from the State Library of Queensland and is now available on Picture Ipswich.
Council is also honouring long-serving community member Doris Jeffrey, who passed away aged 101 in June 2024. Doris was a life member of the Ipswich Croquet Club, where she volunteered for 35 years, including terms as president. A commemorative plaque will be installed to recognise her contribution.
This weekend also features the St Paul’s annual Quilt and Craft Show at 124 Brisbane Street, Ipswich. Running until Saturday, the event showcases intricate quilts, cross-stitch, woodworking, and live demonstrations by the local Spinners and Weavers Club.
Meanwhile, council has announced drainage rehabilitation works on Blackstone Road, Silkstone, beginning September 15. The project will install a new underground stormwater network, upgrade gully pits with bike-safe grates, and reconstruct the road pavement. Works are expected to continue until October 28, weather permitting, with traffic controls in place.
Cr Doyle thanked residents for their patience: “These works are essential to reduce flooding impacts and improve safety during major storms.”
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