Community Outreach- Porirua Library

We sat down with Shamila Gurr the Community Outreach Coordinator at the Porirua Library and talked about the positive environment of working in the library.

 

We wanted to know how libraries are socially inclusive and how accessible the spaces, books and the building is for the Disabled community.

Porirua city Library Entrance

How accessible is the library for people with disabilities?

Many disabilities support groups hold regular meetings here and many people with disabilities are regular users of the library, including those in wheelchairs, people who have visual or hearing impairments, and people with intellectual or neural disabilities. We are aware that disability can be hidden, and that people don't always want to speak out about their needs. We always want to know if anyone has access difficulties, and we welcome all feedback on this.

What services does the library offer?

The library offers a lot of services, and these change over time. The best place to find out about our current services is to look on our Website

There are a couple of services I'd really like to draw attention to: one is our housebound service. If a library member is unable to safely leave their home, we will visit that person in their home, find out what they like to read, and deliver these books to them, on an ongoing basis or for a specific period, e.g., when recovering from surgery.

The other is e-books and e-audiobooks. E-books are the electronic versions of print books, and you can read them on a computer, tablet, or phone. E-audio books are books that are read out loud and can be downloaded. Any library member with a smartphone or tablet can use these free of charge. The audiobooks can be great for readers with visual impairments. The font size of the e-books can be adjusted so this can be helpful too.

We also have physical books that come in large print and CD audiobooks that can be listened to on a CD player, for people who prefer these.

Has the library become a socialising hub for the community?

Many different groups use our libraries and often when I'm in the library I see connections being made and friendships developing as community members interact.

What do you think of the Pacific Collective Social Hub?

I think it's an amazing initiative. I think it will be very empowering for your community but also enriching for the wider community and will go a long way to dispelling any ignorance that people have.

Any potential collaboration with Pacific Collective Disabled Community?

I really hope that we can find a way to support Tōfā Mamao Collective events by providing venues if they are suitable. We also want to make sure that the Pacific Collective Disabled Community knows about us our collections, our spaces, and our services. If you ever need a contact person to ask about questions for collaboration that's me."

What can the library be used for?

The library can be used for many different things. There are a lot of people who come to use our free computers, free Wi-Fi and to get our help with life admin such as filling in forms, applying for jobs or sending emails.

Families bring their children to our popular story times.

Many people use our libraries as a place just to hang out, meet up with friends, or just past a bit of time in a warm safe place where you don't have to spend any money.

Students and researchers use our collection and our space to study and many people rely on our books, magazines, and DVDs for entertainment and learning.

Any last encouraging words?

Go well and be strong. Thank you for connecting with us and please let your community know that our place is their place.

To know more about the Porirua Library and how to apply for a Library card visit their website Here