At Stretton State College, our libraries are more than just book collections—they are the heartbeat of our learning community. Across both campuses, our libraries provide welcoming, dynamic spaces where students can explore ideas, develop a love of reading, and build essential research skills that will serve them for life.
We believe that libraries are places of discovery, connection, and creativity. They empower students to think critically, embrace curiosity, and engage with the world through stories, research, and collaborative learning. Whether it's diving into a captivating novel, exploring cutting-edge digital resources, or taking part in exciting literary events, our libraries are here to support, inspire, and enrich every student's learning journey.
Both our Gowan (P–6) and Illaweena (7–12) libraries offer tailored collections, programs, and services to meet the unique needs of students at each stage of their education.
College Library Events:
Premier's Reading Challenge
The Premier's Reading Challenge is an annual state wide initiative that aims to improve literacy and encourage children to read for pleasure and learning. Students from Grades P-9 are to read a set amount of texts and have their efforts recognised through the receipt of a Certificate of Achievement signed by the Premier of Queensland.
Reader's Cup
Readers Cup is organised by the Qld Branch of the Children's Book Council of Australia. It is a state wide competition for young readers. Teams of four to five students together read a set of books, and then compete with other teams to answer quiz questions from the books. Stretton State College participates in both the Year 5/6 and 7/8 Regional Competitions.
Children's Book Council - Book Week
Each year the Children's Book Council of Australia brings children and books together celebrating CBCA Book Week. During this time we celebrate Australian children's literature with book character parades, lunch time activities, competitions and amazing displays.
National Simultaneous Storytime
Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country. Our Gowan students participate this wonderful initiative each year.
Book Sawp
Once a year, we encourage students in year 6 - 12 to donate a book from home to our libraries. Once we have a treasure trove of pre-loved books, we open up our Illaweena library to our Great Book Swap! Students have the chance to browse our donated collection, find a new favourite story, and donate a gold coin to support the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.
Library Hours
- Illaweena Library - Monday – Friday: 7:45 AM – 3:30 PM
- Gowan Library – Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
eBook Library
Sora is a reading app designed for students, and was designed to replace the Overdrive app our students had previously been using. Both apps will continue to work however the eResource Services team is now updating and curating new eBook collections in Sora, rather than OverDrive.
The difference for our students is that Sora allows all books to be downloaded to the device, where as previously some could only be read online with an internet connection. Feedback from our students is that it is faster and easier to use.
To get started:
- Install the Sora app on your device.
- Search for 'Education Queensland' and log in with your MIS ID.
The new Sora App is free and can be downloaded at the following links:
iOS and iPadOS devices:for Android devices:or it can be accessed here on computers: