Margaret Kirby talks to The Footpath Library
The James N Kirby Foundation has been a valued supporter of The Footpath Library for the past four years, providing much-needed funding for our Hub and mobile library services in Sydney. For over 50 years, the James N Kirby Foundation supports organisations that provide innovative solutions and opportunities to those in our community who need it most.
We sat down with Margaret Kirby, a Trustee of the Foundation, and granddaughter of James Kirby, to talk about the support for The Footpath Library.
The James N Kirby Foundation has been a valued partner for The Footpath Library since 2022, providing funds for The Hub and our mobile library outreach programs. What do you like most about what The Footpath Library does?
I like most that The Footpath Library is community based, a grass roots organisation, and what you do is available to anyone.
Your grandfather, James N Kirby, was renowned for his business acumen and instinct, but also a man with a charitable heart and a commitment to philanthropy, with a philosophy of ‘ploughing something back’ into the community. What values did your grandfather instil in you and how has that shaped your own life, and your own giving journey?
My grandfather helped me to understand the nature of philanthropy. We were educated and encouraged to support smaller not-for-profit community-based organisations. The type of organisations that often fall in between the cracks of larger philanthropic organisations. To me, it is all about the ‘ripple effect’ of the funding, ensuring it is used in a meaningful and impactful way. We were taught, especially by my father Kevin, to always remember where we came from and to have a strong work ethic. I have had a fortunate life, and for this reason it is even more important to give back to community.
What drives your giving? What are you passionate about?
I am driven by the opportunity to see real change in people’s lives. This drives my giving for grass root initiatives, to help individuals so that their lives are directly impacted.
What is one book that made an impact on you and why?
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee - I was 14 when I read this book and it was the first time it really struck me about how the author communicated inequality in both race and economic circumstance. It covers all facets of neurodivergence, and the book themes are the basis of everything in life. This book helped me to really get selfless service.
On a personal note, what are you reading right now?
I like to read a few books at once, so I am currently reading…
The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion
From one of America's iconic writers, a stunning book of electric honesty and passion. Joan Didion explores an intensely personal yet universal experience: a portrait of a marriage–and a life, in good times and bad–that will speak to anyone who has ever loved a husband or wife or child.
A Bit on the Side by Virginia Trioli
A Bit on the Side is Virginia's ode to joy, filled with wisdom, stories, memories and recipes, all told with her renowned insight and wicked sense of humour. This is a book to be read, treasured and shared with anyone who wants life served with a side of delight.