The volunteer team behind the mobile library services in Perth continue to be continues to be the driving force that ensures people experiencing homelessness can access books and reading glasses, according to The Footpath Library’s new Perth Programs Manager, Camille Grubba.
“The volunteer team in Perth is amazing,” explains Camille. “Our volunteers have stuck through the ups and downs of the COVID-19 pandemic and then the rainy winter weather, and are more committed than ever to deliver the best possible service to our readers.”
The Footpath Library commenced operations in Perth in 2014, and some of the volunteers have been with us from the very beginning. One such volunteer is Chris Leonard, who volunteered after hearing Sarah Garnett on ABC radio asking for volunteers to set up the Perth branch of The Footpath Library.
“I know how important reading is to me so being able to provide books to those who might otherwise not have access to them is a real pleasure,” says Chris. “Also, being able to see the difference that a seemingly simple activity such as providing a pair of reading glasses to someone, who is having difficulty reading, can make is really fantastic.”
The Footpath Library runs mobile library services in Perth CBD on Sunday mornings alongside other great services such as Orange Sky, The Street Doctor and Perth Homeless Support Group. On any given Sunday there will be between 150 to 200 people attending; unfortunately, the number of people experiencing homelessness in and around Perth remains stubbornly high.
Along with the city location, The Footpath Library also offers weekly mobile library services at St Bart’s in East Perth and Peel Community Kitchen in Mandurah.
The Footpath Library is looking forward to adding another new service so stay tuned!
Chris Leonard (pictured) has been volunteering with The Footpath Library in Perth since 2014.
