Media release | Wednesday 29 June
Friday Fables a hit for Upper Hutt Central Library
New programme at the Central Library promotes inclusiveness.

UPPER HUTT, Wellington NZ, 29 June 2011— Upper Hutt City Library has begun a new programme for members of the community with intellectual disabilities called Friday Fables. The programme began last Friday (24 June) and will continue fortnightly at 10:30 am. Run by Programmes and Services Team Leader, Helen Thomas, Friday Fables provides a framework for members of the community who may otherwise find it difficult to engage in library activities and services—demonstrating the Central Library’s potential as a place for everyone.

Mrs Thomas says, “The format will be the same each week. We will start with our welcome song ‘Haere Mai Welcome Everyone’ followed by a sharing time, a story, current affairs discussion, then more songs accompanied by guitar. This week we sang ‘Ten Guitars’ and ‘Tutira Mai Nga Iwi’. Everyone is welcome to join in.”

Friday Fables aims to be fun, casual, inclusive, and informative, and the response from those attending the first session was very enthusiastic. “With this programme, and many others, Upper Hutt Library is proving to be an essential community hub for all members of society.” says Mrs Thomas.

ENDS

About Upper Hutt City Council
Upper Hutt City Council is the steward and custodian of Upper Hutt City, providing governance, infrastructure, and community services and resources, and promoting opportunity in the city for business, recreation, lifestyle, and leisure. Upper Hutt City is located 30 km north-east of Wellington City (41°07'34" S, 175°04'06" E) and boasts 70% of the region’s parks and reserves, along with state-of-the-art entertainment and leisure facilities.