GEORGE NEWS - George libraries hosted a special event during Library Week to promote the role of the library with regard to disabled people.
The event for differently abled people was held on Tuesday 20 March at the George Civic Centre, attended by representatives from several organisations for the disabled. OR George Sport, Up with Downs, Yeshua Skills, Asijike from the George Arts Theatre, GO GEORGE, Rudie Lombard, a member of the Association of the Mouth and Foot Painters, Association for Persons with Disabilities George (APD), Mr Mobility, Community Workers Project (CWP), Ilitha, Deaf South Africa, and Sharon Eland-Prins who is publishing a book, Friends of the Library, Western Cape APD and the Youth Development Programme.
Debra Sauer, a spokesperson for the municipality, said this year's theme was "heart of the community". Portfolio Councillor for library services Sean Snyman, who was the keynote speaker at the event, said people need to intensify their awareness and sensitisation of these institutions for people living with disabilities.
"In an ever-changing and digital world where knowledge and information are power and education is increasingly important, the purpose of libraries have transformed from being buildings housing books, to places where young and old not only gather vital information regarding the past, but are assisted in making informed decisions about our future."
Snyman said, "though we have not reached our full potential, modern libraries have come a long way to making the transition from being exclusive, to becoming spaces where communities can gather and harvest information."
He also referred to schools that need to be equipped for people living with disabilities as well as public facilities.
Snyman said it is the duty of society and the municipality to create an environment where all people can find their ability and not be singled out by a disability.
Sauer said some of the representatives who provided entertainment showing their skills, helped make the event a huge success. Rudie Lombard's paintings were exhibited in the hall and Eland-Prins spoke about her life as an author. "Some people spoke about audio books and did dancing as well."
Tjebbe Witteveen from Mr Mobility spoke about mobility and wheelchairs and their importance. "Lombard spoke about his life in a wheelchair and how he sustains himself through mouth painting. He did a live painting in front of the audience."
'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'
