Introducing Giselle General
Meet Giselle General, who is running to join our City Council in ward sipiwiyiniwak. We have asked all candidates to share their thoughts on the Edmonton Public Library through a short questionnaire. Here's what Giselle had to say.
Q&A with Giselle General
What is your favourite library memory or experience?
So many! But I'll share one. When I just moved to Canada, in St. Catharines, Ontario I found out there's a local library branch which reminded me of how much I love visiting libraries in my village in the Philippines. I was so joyful! Every week at any weather I would walk 50 minutes to borrow books and a pedometer. It really helped with my learning about life in Canada and with moving to Edmonton a year later.
What is one book you think everyone should read and why?
The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom. A very touching and introspective novel about how we think about life and how our actions affect others.
What vital role does EPL play in a thriving and vibrant Edmonton?
It's a very valuable resource for everyone. From workshops to books and media materials and the helpful staff, they provide the opportunity for people to learn, connect and advance their goals.
If you could be any fictional character, who would you be and why?
Bubbles from the Power Puff Girls. She's my favourite of the three protagonists of the cartoon because she shows that someone can be sensitive, extra thoughtful, and be strong and powerful at the same time. And having two siblings is also great.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned at your local library?
Sometimes, we are pushed to act the way we are not supposed to be, oftentimes because of survival or awful personal lives. Resources and books at the library can be an opportunity to feel yourself again, explore, escape for a little bit and let our minds and hearts be free.
If you could host a program at the library, what would it be about?
I'd like to repeat the workshops I did at the library as the Featured Writer in 2022, so it would be either the 'Getting Started with your First Memoir', or 'How to Apply for Writing Grants'.
Learn More About the 2025 Municipal Election
Curious how to show your love for EPL during this election? Stop by your local branch or visit our election page for ways to advocate for the Library, as EPL is the heart of our city.
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