Northern Exposure
by TOBIN SAUNDERS
I’m not a great reader in that I don’t seem to allow much time to sit quietly and read a lovely book.
On occasions I enjoy fiction or non-fiction books although I tend to immerse myself in journals and reports which, although interesting, are not always that relaxing.
For anyone in a similar metaphorical boat you may have heard of the Lismore Living Library. It is Australia’s first Living Library and boasts a diverse range of living ‘books’. The Living Library works exactly like a regular library only the ‘books’ available are ‘living books’ — people. Borrowing a living book fosters an appreciation of the individuals who make up our community, and allows us to reconsider stereotypes and prejudices.
My book is about being an HIV positive same-sex attracted man living in regional NSW.
The librarian introduces the reader and the book who go to a reading booth for a half-hour chat. The Living Library creates a safe place for such chats. Lismore’s Living Library has its regular open day on the first Friday of the month at the Lismore Library from 11am-2pm. There are usually 15 books to choose from, including me!
Another great local initiative is the Resilient Youth Program. This program supports independent Indigenous and non-Indigenous secondary students, and students living with grand-carers in the Far North Coast region to stay at school and gain their driver’s licence. Students must be attending high school, TAFE or community colleges in years 10, 11 or 12. To apply or make further enquiries, contact the coordinator Gina Crane on 1800 800 340 (Freecall) or email [email protected]
And speaking of youth, the local Fresh Fruits Youth Group continues to expand with colourful diversity. The group meets every second Tuesday of the month. For info, call 02 6622 6440 or email [email protected]
info: For more about groups, services, organisations or events in the Northern Rivers, contact Tobin Saunders at ACON on 02 6622 1555 or [email protected] Tobin Saunders is Community Health Promotion Officer at ACON Northern Rivers.
