QPLA and Local Buy: continuing to empower Queensland’s libraries
Published on 17 November 2025
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By Emma Peters, Head of Engagement, and Daniel O’Donnell, Category Manager
The Queensland Public Libraries Association (QPLA) and Local Buy have marked another milestone in their longstanding partnership with the presentation of a $32,542.15 rebate - bringing the total contribution since the partnership began in 2003 to an impressive $652,748.57.
This enduring collaboration is built on the Local Buy Library Resources Arrangement, a procurement solution designed to support councils across Queensland. The Arrangement offers a wealth of pre-qualified suppliers, ensuring libraries have access to a diverse and trusted pool of vendors for books, digital content, entertainment, and other essential resources.
Local Buy, the procurement arm of the Local Government Association of Queensland, represents all 77 Queensland councils. Its mission is to streamline procurement processes while ensuring compliance with Local Government legislation. Through the Libraries Arrangement, councils benefit from simplified purchasing, reduced administrative burden, and confidence that every transaction meets regulatory requirements.
Each year, Local Buy returns a portion of the management fees - generated through purchases made under the Library Resources Arrangement - as a rebate to QPLA. These funds are reinvested into professional development, conferences, and initiatives that strengthen public libraries and empower library staff across the state.
“This is more than just a cheque - it’s a symbol of what we can achieve together,” said Glen Duff, Local Buy General Manager. “Every procurement decision made under this Arrangement contributes directly to the growth and sustainability of Queensland’s public libraries.”
With 44 panel suppliers pre-qualified under the Arrangement, councils can choose from a broad spectrum of providers, confident in the quality, value, and compliance of their selections. This not only enhances library collections and services but also ensures that procurement remains efficient, transparent, and aligned with legislative obligations.
By choosing to procure through Local Buy, councils are actively reinvesting in the library sector, helping to grow this contribution year after year and ensuring Queensland’s libraries continue to thrive as hubs of learning, connection, and community.
If you’d like to learn more about our library resources arrangements, please get in touch with Daniel O’Donnell, Local Buy Category Manager for Libraries. You can reach Daniel via email at dodonnell@localbuy.net.au or by phone on 0437 650 136.