Joy’s home was badly damaged in the 2011 Christchurch earthquake.

“The chimney had collapsed and the house was shaken right off its piles. The plumbing was wrecked and liquefaction had seeped into the kitchen…. Dealing with EQC and my insurance company had become a painful and slow process. We’d resorted to living in the garage, and cooking on the BBQ. It’s been really rough. Winter was coming and we were at our wits end.”

Joy’s frustrations with EQC were made worse because she lacked basic computer literacy skills which meant all her dealings with EQC and her insurance company had to be on the phone or in person which was difficult as a solo parent juggling kids and searching for a job.

“The library staff helped me learn to drive a computer and get online. What a difference! I found a place for us to live on Trade Me and the library team helped me create a CV, which helped me get a job.“

With a place to live and a regular wage, the librarians helped Joy navigate the trials of EQC as well as her insurance company.

“We’re now getting our home repaired and should be moving back in by November. The amazing people at my library literally saved my home.”