Luis Soriano rides one of his donkeys
in Biblioburro: The Donkey Library.
Each Friday, we post a selection of viewer comments relating to the week’s film. This week, viewers watched Biblioburro: The Donkey Library, the story of a librarian — and a library — like no other. You shared your perspectives on Luis Soriano’s noble mission and the importance of literacy on our Biblioburro film companion site, Facebook and Twitter.
“So inspiring and humbling – what a difference one man’s kindness, courage and integrity can make. I was so moved by the children’s stories and resounding ‘dejar atras’ from the group as Soriano taught them to focus on the good today. And the bond between the donkey and Soriano was simply an affirmation of devotion and love. A joy to watch. ”
— Wpocon
“@povdocs About time Donkeys get some spotlight for being the Great Servants that they are. GOD uses the Donkey for great things. Awesome!”
— Onclaiborne (via Twitter)
“His greatest contribution to these children is that he doesn’t feel it’s a sacrifice for him to provide these services to people who so desperately want to learn, young and old alike. These people “get” how important literacy and education are. I will be showing this movie to my “immigrant” students in high school to help re-inspire them. ”
— Zrf6876
“This documentary changed my life! My greatest wish would be to visit Mr. Soriano in Colombia one day and not only bless him with resources, but talk to him about what he does. He is amazing! Truly, an inspiration to not just me, but the world! ”
— Bookworm1997
“He should be made the Saint of Literature. Amazing documentary. I literally cried, laughed, and then thought – how can I help? Incredible person, inspiring film. ”
— Cynthier
“@povdocs still in awe. The hunger to learn and overcome tragedy that the people of Colombia demonstrated is truly inspirational #Biblioburro”
— Sam_a_Lam817 (via Twitter)
“Salud 2 the man, his books & his biblioburros. He is doing God’s work. And blessings 2 the teachers & kids of Colombia. @povdocs”
— orgchaosmedia (via Twitter)
“What a life-changing mission this teacher has undertaken. It brings home the importance and challenge of literacy in so many remote parts of the world that still exist. This film made me so grateful for accessible public education opportunities that exist in the U.S. I cannot imagine not being able to read and the limitations that would impose. It is easy to take these things for granted until seeing this film.”
— Sandy Hanner (via Facebook)
Many of you expressed interest in donating books or otherwise reaching out to Luis Soriano. The best way to do so is to contact Ayoka Productions and they will put you in touch with Luis directly. For more information on how to donate books and support literacy efforts around the globe, visit the Biblioburro Take Action page.
We’d love to hear more of your thoughts on Carlos Rendón Zipagauta’s film. If you haven’t seen it yet, watch Biblioburro: The Donkey Library online for free through September 18, 2011, then visit our Biblioburro film companion site, Facebook or Twitter and tell us what you thought!
Watch the full episode. See more POV.