Introducing Jennifer Porritt
Meet Jennifer Porritt, who is running to join our City Council in ward tastawiyiniwak. We have asked all candidates to share their thoughts on the Edmonton Public Library through a short questionnaire. Here's what Jennifer had to say.
Q&A with Jennifer Porritt
What is your favourite library memory or experience?
My father was a regional librarian in Saskatchewan while I was growing up. His office had stacks of books that would be circulated to other smaller libraries and on the bookmobile. Because of this, I had access to all the newest books when we went to pick him up from work and waited for him to finish for the day. I got to read the latest Babysitter Club, Sleepover Friends and Sweet Valley Twins before any of my friends did.
Currently, I am an Educational Assistant who takes the lead on the library at school. I love everything about that position, whether it's helping students or staff find the right book or mending the very worn copies of Dog Man.
What is one book you think everyone should read and why?
Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard - This book really opened up my eyes to the magic of the everyday world around us.
What vital role does EPL play in a thriving and vibrant Edmonton?
Public libraries are one of our few true third spaces, which are places to gather beyond home, work and school, and are vital to our democracy in so many ways, from combating disinformation to creating a space for people to encounter folks unlike themselves and learn new points of view.
If you could be any fictional character, who would you be and why?
Although she's not technically from a book, I would be Ms. Frizzle because I get very passionate about learning and sharing the topics I am interested in.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned at your local library?
When we make space for everyone, we all thrive together.
If you could host a program at the library, what would it be about?
As someone who is passionate about clean air, I would host an air filter building workshop at the Milner Makerspace, with my friend who is amazing at creating beautiful and functional filter boxes with the laser cutter.
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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