The Living Library comes to Bournemouth

Bournemouth library is one of four libraries in England that are piloting the Living Library. The project gives direct access to someone else’s experience, by allowing people to ‘borrow’ a person who has experience to share, or is passionate about a hobby, lifestyle or an interest. It also gives people an opportunity to speak in private and personally to a ’stranger’ in a structured, protected environment within a limited time but without any further commitment.

Shelagh Levett, Head of Information, Culture and Community Learning said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Bournemouth library users to come and experience the Living Library which will provide the chance to have a conversation with people from various backgrounds and learn about their life and experiences.

“We’ve got some really interesting people lined up including; a pantomine dame, a Police Community Support officer and a magistrate.”

The idea of Living Library was developed by the Danish Youth NGO 'Stop the Violence' as part of the Roskilde Festival 2000, Denmark's largest annual music event. This was followed by Living Library events in Hungary, Norway, Australia and Portugal. It is a way of building bridges through the art of conversation in a comfortable, non-threatening and public space.

The project is funded by the Museums Libraries and Archives Council and will be overseen by Local Level. Local Level is an independent consultancy which specialises in research and facilitation around the themes of information and communication and has particular experience working with public libraries. Further information is at www.Local-Level.org.uk.

The speaker, or ‘book’ will be given their own space and can be borrowed for between 20 - 40 minutes. ‘Borrowing’ means that the book will speak with the borrower, sharing their personal experience of their subject. Refreshments and time for breaks in between borrowings will be available.

For more information please contact: Sian Hudson, Bournemouth Library, The Triangle, Bournemouth, BH2 5RQ Tel: 01202 454848

The MLA is government’s agency for museums, galleries, libraries and archives. We deliver strategic leadership in England and in each of its regions and we collaborate with partners across the UK. Our research identifies good practice, which we use to promote improvement. We offer advice, support and resources to funding bodies and other groups to incentivise innovation. Our aim is to raise professional standards and champion better services for users and readers of all ages and backgrounds, whether residents or visitors.