Community participation increases

Facilitating community participation with indigenous cultural awareness programs by the library

1376 people have participated in indigenous cultural programs in 2009; a 728% increase compared to 189 people in 2005. The indigenous and non indigenous population was involved in planning, presenting, and participating as an audience.

Many different types of community engagement programs (as shown in the chart below) such as the seminars, workshops, gatherings, puppet shows, and presentations were organized by the library. The increasing attendance and participation at the storytelling and celebrations indicate that they are effective vehicles for community engagement and relationship development.

The oral tradition of passing on information with stories is a good medium for learning, sharing and cultural awareness. The art of storytelling improves listening skills. It also seems to capture the attention of the audience. The storytelling appeals to both children and adults. It is also a good tool for adult learners to improve presentation skills.

The storytelling skill engages the audience and can be applied in the workplace to improve communication and at home to promote and facilitate family literacy.

The connection between oral communication and audience participation is interesting from the importance of exchange of information during the civic engagement process. The celebrations and storytime circles position the public library as an information transfer/exchange centre, a hub, a community channel, and a ‘Communications Place.’