February 13, 2026“Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” — Emily Brontë, Wuthering Heights
This Library Lovers’ Day (14 February), Northern Health is celebrating a place many of us already know and love – our Library. More than shelves of books, the Library is a trusted partner in learning, research, evidence-based practice, wellbeing and connection, supporting both clinical and non-clinical staff, as well as enhancing the experience of our consumers.
From helping clinicians access the latest evidence, to creating welcoming spaces to pause and recharge, the Library plays a quiet but powerful role across the organisation every day.
Whether you’re developing models of care, conducting research, studying, or simply needing a calm place away from the hustle of the hospital, the Library team is there, offering expert guidance, trusted resources and a genuinely welcoming environment.
As Dr Stephen Quick, Allied Health Research, shared, “The Library have been and continue to be an incredible support for the Allied Health Research Team, providing education, project-specific advice, and support with access to the most up-to-date evidence and journals. We are incredibly lucky to have the Library team as part of the Northern Health family.”
The CLEO team echoed this, highlighting how Library support with literature reviews has helped clinicians understand what works globally, particularly in virtual care, so services can be designed with both clinicians and patients at the centre.
Beyond research and learning, the Library’s impact reaches directly into patient care. Initiatives such as Patient Libraries and the Care and Comfort program support wellbeing, inclusion and meaningful activity during admission.
Jeena Katuwal, NUM, Ward 16, reflected on the Patient Library space.
“The Patient Library has become more than a collection of books. It has grown into a place of connection for everyone who walks through our doors,” she said.
At the Broadmeadows Adults Inpatient Unit, Tamara Cannan, NUM, shared how access to diverse reading materials and handmade comfort items has enhanced the consumer experience, helping people feel supported, valued and cared for during their stay.
For many staff, the Library is also a personal haven. Larni Koutsofrigas, Support Services Coordinator, summed it up perfectly, “It is a place where you can go to zone out from the hustle and bustle of the hospital… like hanging out at your favourite coffee shop – no coffee, but there are minties.”
Friendly faces, quiet rooms, expert help and a welcoming vibe – it’s easy to see why so many of us keep coming back.
“To mark Library Lovers’ Day, we’re inviting staff to add a hand-written love letter to the Library noticeboard. Tell us what you love about the Library, a librarian who’s helped you, or how the space supports your work or wellbeing,” said Tania Barry, Director, Library and Information Literacy Services.
“If you’re around, come check out the noticeboard, add your message, and if you hand it in to Library staff, you’ll receive a sweet treat!” she added.
Happy Library Lovers’ Day!
Pictured in featured image: Northern Health Library members.
