“Put your smart devices down and reduce your screen time, swap it for a good book.” is the thinking behind Melbourne’s The District Dockland’s new initiative called The Reading Room.

On a wintery Melbourne morning in June, The District Docklands invited locals to help open The Reading Room, a quiet space, where you can relax and read a book.

After cutting the ‘book cake’ with local resident Lee Chan, The District Docklands welcomed all guests to explore the new space, with one important message, “Put your smart devices down and get lost in a good book.”

The Reading Room

The books in The Reading Room can be borrowed, or swapped with another. Be it a children’s book you read to the little ones, or a cook book that inspires you to get in the kitchen, or maybe a novel that keeps you turning the pages in the comfort of your home. And if you’re visiting from afar, swap your book with another, a new story to read on your trip home.

The Reading Room was inspired by Education Week, celebrating excellence in education. The District Docklands continues to provide local schools a platform to showcase their talent. Thanks to teaching staff and students from Carlton Gardens Primary School and North Melbourne Primary School, you can witness the incredible career pathways young students want to take when they grow up, artwork displayed in The Reading Room.

Artwork by students celebrating Education Week 2019

Did you know that reading has a number of benefits? Many experts claim that mental stimulation from reading can slow the progress of neurological disease by keeping your brain active and engaged. We encourage local workers to read a book during their break, away from their computer screens and smart phones; losing yourself in a good story can assist in reducing stress! Improve your memory, expand your everyday vocabulary, learn new things and develop your concentration – just a few benefits of settling in with a good book every chance you get.

Lee Chan, Docklands local resident