"I love the accessibility" - Luis's story

Meet Luis Bernal, one of our regular users of State Library of Queensland.

Luis Bernal at State Library. Image by State Library staff member

Hi, I’m Luis and I’m from Cali, Colombia. Cali, it’s a city of 3 million people, one hour drive from the Pacific Ocean, and it has a tropical weather. So it is similar to Brisbane for some aspects.

I’ve been living here for one month! I came to study English and I could choose to do the course in Brisbane or Sydney. I picked Brisbane because there are less Spanish speakers around and I get more exposure to English; so I have to practice all the time. But I would like to go to Melbourne later on, because it’s a bigger city and I would prefer cooler weather!

I’m also thinking of making a major change in my career. Right now I’m finishing a Business Management diploma in Colombia, I’m doing it online, but since Australia has a good reputation on education, I’m thinking about staying here and studying more to learn a trade, because I like to make and build things. I like tools, I like creating spaces and making stuff. I’d like to be a contractor!

The first time I came to the Library was two weeks ago. I was going to the City Library and I was talking to my sister back in Colombia, and since it was a beautiful day I remember I told my sister I’d keep walking and discover what was on the other side of the bridge.

I feel comfortable here. The computers and the Wi-Fi are ok, but above all it’s more spacious, quiet, and you can just sit near the window and enjoy the view! I told myself: c’mon! I can study with this view of the river? Is it real?

Now I’m coming more or less every day.

All the facilities, the layout, everything helps to concentrate on what I have to do. And above all, I love the accessibility. I appreciated when an institution gives everyone access to such a range of resources and facilities. It is laudable.

As told to State Library staff

Fed Pani

Visitor and Information Services