After many schools and businesses were prevented from hosting a Great Book Swap event last year due to COVID-19, the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) is encouraging anyone who can participate this year to do so, with national law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth leading the way.

The ILF is a not-for-profit charity and has been working with remote Australian communities for over a decade. By providing books, books in language, and publishing community stories, ILF works to empower remote communities to lead their own literacy journeys.

During a Great Book Swap, books are swapped in exchange for a gold coin or five-dollar donation – with the proceeds going to buying culturally relevant books for children in remote Indigenous Australian communities. The initiative is one of the biggest sources of fundraising for the ILF and a Great Book Swap can be held any day between now and Indigenous Literacy Day on Wednesday, 1 September 2021.

Helen Clarke, partner-in-charge of the Corrs Chambers Westgarth Brisbane office, said that the firm recognises the importance of providing literacy to children in remote communities.

“As lawyers, we are reminded daily of the importance of literacy and reading. Corrs got involved in the Great Book Swap to support the Indigenous Literacy Foundation in providing books and learning resources to children living in remote communities across Australia,” she said.

“Since being involved, we have found that it also presents an invaluable opportunity to raise awareness of, and generate discussion about, issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. There is a way for everyone to get involved – from donating pre-loved books for a Great Book Swap to donating funds.

“Although our event may look a little different from previous years, I am looking forward to connecting with colleagues over some great books – and very much hoping we can do that in person.”

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Currently open for registrations for 2021, the ILF is hoping to boost momentum and increase participation by 20 per cent this year, with a current fundraising goal of $350,000 to gift 35,000 books to Indigenous children across Australia.

Karen Williams, ILF executive director, said that the Great Book Swap has been a great way to support Indigenous communities.

“Our aim this year is to engage 1,000 schools, individuals and organisations in the Great Book Swap,” she said.

“Our vision is equity of opportunity and the Great Book Swap is a simple way for schools and businesses to support First Nations peoples’ literacy opportunities in remote Australia.”