The School Library Association of NSW Library Service Award is awarded to a member of the school community in recognition of their outstanding service to their school library. The 2026 Library Service Award is presented to Aaron Hatch, Library Support Officer at Wanaaring Public School.

Aaron Hatch has provided outstanding service to his school community through his leadership and commitment to transforming the school library into a dynamic centre for reading engagement and student wellbeing. His initiative and dedication have reshaped how students experience the library, turning it into a space that inspires curiosity, delight and a strong sense of belonging.

Aaron has coordinated the redesign of the library layout, sourced furniture and resources to enhance the space and created practical systems that dramatically improved accessibility. With thoughtful research into contemporary library design and ongoing consultation with staff and students, he ensured that every improvement was purposeful, engaging and student centred.

One of the most significant projects Aaron has driven is the curation and expansion of the library’s collection. He actively seeks student voice in purchasing decisions. His focus on high-interest, diverse and inclusive literature has ensured that all students feel represented and excited by what they find on the shelf. This has led to increased borrowing rates, stronger reading confidence and a noticeable shift in the way students talk about books and reading.

Aaron has taken a lead role in the organisation of the annual book fair, ensuring that is supports the development of literacy skills and is a positive experience for students. Students now describe the library as their favourite place to spend time, reflecting the warmth and inclusivity Aaron bring s to the space. His influence has extended beyond borrowing statistics as he has helped his school form a genuine culture of reading.

As a valued and long-serving staff member of his small remote school, Aaron consistently goes above and beyond the expectation of his role to ensure the success of every student. His leadership, creativity and pride in his work have resulted in a library transformation that will benefit his school community for many years to come. Aaron is an inspirational advocate for literacy whose work embodies the spirit of outstanding service. Through innovation, initiative and a genuine belief in the power of reading, he has made a profound and lasting difference to the lives of the students of his community.

The School Library Association of NSW is very pleased to confer the Library Service Award to Aaron Hatch, who is a highly deserving recipient.

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