PORTER LAUNCHES LIVING LIBRARY BOOKS

Today, Ms Mary Porter, Member for Ginninderra, presented Canberra’s first walking, talking, living library book.

For the first time, Canberrans will have the opportunity to loan a living breathing library ‘book’ – in other words, a person – as part of the ACT Public Libraries Living Library program.

“The Living Library is different to a regular library in one telling way – the stories are told through real people,” Ms Porter said.

In celebration of Australia Day, Kippax Library will host the first Living Library Program.

“A living book is a person who identifies themselves with a particular stereotype or experienced prejudice from people in the community. They have volunteered to answer questions and share their experiences, to help build understanding relationships and social inclusion.

“Library users will have the opportunity to reserve one of the living books for about 30 to 45 minutes where they will have the chance to find out what these people’s lives are really like.

“This is a fabulous initiative that will serve to break-down stereotypes. I’d like to thank the volunteers for their invaluable contribution,” Ms Porter stated.

The first session will take place on Saturday 30 January 2010 between 10 am and 12 pm at Kippax Library. Five living ‘books’ will be available on the day covering the following areas:

• living with Parkinson’s;
• adoptive parent of an adopted Thai child;
• living in Timbuktu;
• foster mother for 30 years; and
• home-schooling parent.

“I encourage interested Canberrans to come along and participate in this new initiative. It is a great way to breakdown pre-conceived stereotypes or thoughts you may have about other people. It is also a valuable opportunity to learn about how other people live and some of the life experiences they have had.”

Bookings are essential. Contact the ACT Public Library to register or ask for more information on 6205 9000 or visit www.library.act.gov.au

Statement Ends

Media Contact:

Andrew Hunter
02 6205 0428
0431 739 775
Andrew.hunter@parliament.act.gov.au

Or

Mary Porter
02 6205 0100
0414 480 440