【Reported from Kaohsiung】To promote international cultural exchange and enrich the collection of reading materials provided for citizens, the Australian Office in Taipei gifted the Kaohsiung Public Library (KPL) with 50 highly commended picture books. The books encompass a diverse variety of topics and stories, ranging from Australian history, culture, ecology, and even tales from its Indigenous peoples, targeted for children and teenagers. As a gesture of gratitude and to create an opportunity for local citizens to learn about Australian culture, KPL organized the "WOW! This is Australia - Wonders of Illustrated Books" Exhibition at the International Picture Book Center, located on the B1 Floor of the Kaohsiung Main Public Library. KPL welcomes all citizens to visit the exhibition and explore the rich world of Australian culture from April 11 to May 4.

An official book-gifting ceremony was held on March 28 at the Kaohsiung Main Public Library. Australian Representative Robert Fergusson, Executive Director Dan Bowman of the Australian Office in Taipei’s Economic and Policy Section, and Eann Chen, Country Manager for Taiwan at the University of Tasmania, attended the event, witnessing a moment of deep and meaningful cultural exchange.

【Picture 1】A photograph taken during the book-gifting ceremony with representatives from KPL and the Australian Office in Taipei, highlighting Taiwan and Australia’s close friendship in reading promotion and cultural exchange. 

"KPL commenced a book exchange with Brisbane City in 2021," said KPL Director Chin-Yang Lee. "After four years, we are honored to have received new books from the Australian Office in Taipei. Beyond nourishing our friendship, these initiatives symbolize the deepening and growing connection between the cultures of Kaohsiung and Australia.

We have received a rich collection of books, carrying stories of knowledge, delving into topics such as Australian native plants and stories from Australian Aboriginal peoples. The creation of these picture books reflects the diversity and inclusivity in Australia's local cultures. Through this exhibition, KPL hopes to encourage local citizens to sharpen their English proficiency while enriching their understanding and knowledge of the beauty and values found in different cultures. Additionally, we hope to plant the seeds of international literacy and cultural knowledge in our young readers. We offer our deepest and sincerest gratitude to the Australian Office in Taipei for their generous support and trust. KPL will continue to spare no effort in improving our services and expanding our resources, ensuring that reading will become a bridge that connects Kaohsiung City with the world."

During his opening remarks, Australian Representative Robert Fergusson remarked on the long-lasting friendship between Kaohsiung and Australia. Kaohsiung City particularly enjoys a close friendship with its sister city, Brisbane. The two cities have built strong foundations for exchange in education, economy, and culture. "These books do not simply signify our undeniable support for KPL's international book collection, but are presented as cultural gifts that enable citizens to connect with the world." He mentioned his two favorite picture books, Possum Magic and Edward the Emu, beloved classics among readers of all ages in Australia, not only for their humour and imaginative stories but also for their strong local cultural integrity and characteristics.

【Picture 2】During the meeting between KPL Director Chin-Yang Lee and the delegation team from the Australian Office in Taipei, both parties discussed various issues, such as reading promotion, educational partnership, and cultural exchange, in depth.

For years, KPL has been dedicated to creating diverse and inclusive reading experiences while promoting international collaboration and cultural exchange. According to Director Lee, KPL's most recent partnership with the Australian Office in Taipei marks the beginning of an excellent foundation for future translational exchange. During the discussions that followed the book-gifting ceremony, both parties reached a consensus on numerous issues, including reading promotion, educational cooperation, and cultural events. KPL looks forward to designing and organizing impactful collaborative initiatives with the Australian Office in Taipei in the future. Moreover, KPL is determined to continue introducing newer and richer knowledge resources and international perspectives to citizens of Kaohsiung City.

KPL welcomes all citizens to visit the International Picture Book Center on the B1 Floor of the Kaohsiung Main Public Library and explore the "WOW! This is Australia - Wonders of Illustrated Books" Exhibition. The displayed picture books from the Southern Hemisphere are guaranteed to transform into bridges that connect imagination, language, and culture, whisking readers and their families into a new reading journey of cultural adventures.

【Picture 3 & 4】KPL organized a themed book exhibition from April 11 to May 4 at the International Picture Book Center on the B1 Floor of the Kaohsiung Main Public Library. The exhibition displayed specially selected English picture books from the Australian Office in Taiwan. KPL invites all citizens to participate and immerse themselves in stories of Australian history, culture, ecology, and diverse Aboriginal peoples.