Reading changes lives – acclaimed reading advocate Miranda McKearney visits New Zealand to tell us why
The New Zealand Book
Council and the National Library of New Zealand have
combined forces to bring British reading and social justice entrepreneur, Miranda McKearney to
New Zealand from 4 – 8 April, 2016. Miranda will speak at events in Auckland and Wellington
focusing on how books and reading can enable individuals to fully participate in social,
economic, cultural and political life.
Miranda founded The Reading Agency, an organisation established in 2002 which aims to inspire more people in the UK to read more, encourages them to share their enjoyment of reading and celebrate the difference reading makes to all our lives. The New Zealand Book Council and the National Library of New Zealand share an ambition to encourage Kiwis to enjoy all that a good book has to offer.
Miranda received an OBE in 2005 for services to education and libraries. She is now leading the work of EmpathyLab, a small start-up passionate about the creative power of words to build empathy, and the power of empathy to make the world a better place.
Miranda says “helping people to become confident and enthusiastic readers can change lives. I’m excited about coming to NZ to share experience of starting practical programmes which inspire thousands of people to enjoy reading for the first time.”
Peter Biggs, Chair of the Board of the New Zealand Book Council said “Research demonstrates that reading for pleasure hugely impacts wellbeing, increases empathy and emotional intelligence, and builds self-esteem. Our aim is to get more New Zealanders reading more often and we are keen to identify any synergies with successful UK programmes”.
Bill Macnaught, National Librarian said Miranda’s visit is timely. “The National Library is heavily involved in a number of initiatives to encourage reading, particularly among young people. Our Services to Schools programme is trying new ways to engage young New Zealanders with reading, and to encourage a culture of reading for pleasure. It is also increasingly important for agencies like the Library and the Book Council to step up the ways we work together to nurture and promote reading.”
For further information, please contact:
Catriona Ferguson
CEO New Zealand Book Council
(04) 801 5546
[email protected]
Bill Macnaught, National Librarian, (04) 474 3145
Or
Department of Internal Affairs Communications: Kathryn Street 021 940278