Living Library
Overview
Living Library gives readers an opportunity to borrow a person or “living book”. Volunteers, who are the living books, share stories about their personal experiences of diversity in a safe and welcoming environment.
Program Goals
The Living Library is designed:
- To enable individuals to actively contribute to the building of inclusive communities of understanding
- To provide information in a comfortable and safe environment
- To foster independent learning skills through asking questions and sharing information
- To increase awareness and use of library resources, services and resources
Length of the program
- Flexible times offered various days throughout the year.
Volunteer Qualification
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Able to respond to range of different readers of diverse backgrounds
- Able to share personal information and answer questions honestly without any prejudices
Volunteer Responsibilities
- Commit to participate in the program for a minimum of one year
- Contact library staff if you are unable to attend a scheduled session
- Respect confidentiality
Training
Program Locations
Volunteer Benefits
- Exploring diversity issues in safe environment
- Meeting readers and other living books they otherwise would not have met
- Practice public speaking
Contact Person for Living Library Program:
Denise Justino
This program is delivered in partnership with the Calgary Public Library and the Calgary Centre for Culture, Equity and Diversity.
Living Library is funded by Family & Community Support Services and the City of Calgary.