Liz joined The Footpath Library almost a year ago and has helped transformed our social media presence with her digital marketing skills. She took some time out to explain how Facebook can help shine a light on homelessness in Australia.
What attracted you to volunteer at The Footpath Library?
I’ve always loved reading, and when I found out about The Footpath Library I knew immediately that I wanted to help however I could. My background is in digital marketing, so I approached Sarah to see if I could bring any skills to the table and luckily she suggested a role that suited me to a tee!
You look after the The Footpath Library’s Facebook page, what do you hope to achieve?
My aim is to use Facebook as a channel to raise awareness of the work The Footpath Library is doing, as well as homelessness as an issue, and the importance of books and libraries. It’s great fun because I get to post about things that interest me, to people who share those interests.
What has been a highlight for you during your time with The Footpath Library?
Meeting such a wonderful group of people who are so passionately committed to helping others.
Do you think social media can play a positive role in addressing homelessness?
I think any means of raising awareness can have a positive impact and Facebook is now such an important medium through which people engage with the world. It is a hub of conversation, a way of sharing interests and knowledge, and for many people it’s one of the main ways they keep up to date with what is happening in the world.
Why do you think providing books to homeless people matters?
I believe that books have the power to make even the worst day a little bit brighter, and to create a sense of connection to the world and to others. By providing books to homeless people TFL is improving their quality of life.
If there was one myth you could dispel about homeless people, what would it be?
That being homeless is a reflection of a person’s character rather than of their circumstances.
What would you say to someone who was thinking about volunteering for TFL?
Don’t hesitate – for me, being involved in such an inspiring initiative has been very rewarding.
Do you have a favourite author?
I read anything and everything! I’ve always loved Margaret Atwood, Kazuo Ishiguro and Tim Winton.
What are you reading at the moment?
I’ve actually just finished The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan. Heartbreaking.
