2010 Barr Smith Library Appeal

Highly regarded young author and University of Adelaide graduate Patrick Allington is the public face of the 2010 Barr Smith Library Appeal.

Dr Allington's widely-praised first novel, Figurehead, was published in July 2009 through Black Inc., and selected for the long list of Australia's premier literary prize, the Miles Franklin Literary Award.

Figurehead - and the writing process behind it - also formed a significant component of his PhD in Creative Writing at the University of Adelaide, which he completed in 2005.

He also has a Master of Arts (Politics) and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University, and in March was awarded the $15,000 Barbara Hanrahan Fellowship as part of the Adelaide Festival Awards.

After spending many undergraduate and postgraduate hours in the Barr Smith Library, Dr Allington knows the impact it can have on a student's learning and subsequent career path.

"I must have borrowed hundreds of books from the Barr Smith Library in my time, so I'm delighted that Figurehead is now on the shelves," Dr Allington said.

"In the digital age, the Barr Smith Library remains a vital part of the student experience at the University of Adelaide. I have really appreciated the diversity of resources and the support I have received from the Library over the years."

University Librarian Ray Choate said the Barr Smith Library was committed to helping students and staff achieve outstanding results.

"Our goal is to provide the best possible resources in the best possible environment," he said.

To donate, or to find out more about the 2010 Barr Smith Library Appeal, please visit: www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au/bsl