Librarian Julie Sykes reports Freeda missing to Snr Constable Greg Treavors
Central West Libraries have reported to local police their Library Mascot Freeda the Reader as missing.
The newest member of the Library team went missing during the Christmas break. She is described as a female Platypus, with lots of dense brown fur, green eyes, a large rubbery snout, 175cm tall with webbed feet, and last seen wearing a red vest.
All staff from Central West Libraries have been on the lookout for Freeda as she has been known to visit any of the 7 branches to find interesting titles to read or watch.
Youth Liaison and Crime Prevention Officer for Canobolas Area Command, Senior Constable Greg Treavors, visited the Library today to talk to colleagues, patrons and Freeda’s friends as the first steps to help locating her.
“We are confident we will find her – with your help. Any snippet of information – no matter how small – can assist us,” he said.
Members of the community are asked to contact their local library to report any sightings of the Library mascot known as Freeda the Reader.
Children’s Librarian Julie Sykes said it was unusual for Freeda the Reader not to say where she was going. “Usually she is very thoughtful and lets us know what she is doing. She was spotted at the Visitor Information Centre getting a map, so we think she was planning a trip but was so excited, she forgot to tell us,” Mrs Sykes said.
“We are hopeful she is all right and will return home soon. Freeda is an important part of our Summer Reading Club activities,” she said.
Participants in the Library’s Summer Reading Club activities are reminded to get their challenge sheets (completed or partially completed) into the Library on Monday 20th January. Colouring-in entries are also welcome and will be put on display.
Prizes will also be given for the most creative stories about Freeda and her adventures away from the Library. It is all part of the fun of Summer Read activities at the Library.
Snr Constable Treavors will also be a special guest at the Summer Reading Club Wrap Party on Thursday 23 January from 10.30 to 12 noon at Orange City Library.