Call for “Living Books”

The Library is looking for individuals who would be willing to volunteer as “Living Books” at the event. Typically, Books represent groups or individuals who feel they are the target of stereotyping or misunderstanding or who hold a controversial or little-known viewpoint. For instance, Books at the Living Library might have titles such as: sports enthusiast, police officer, hunter, Buddhist, soldier, vegan, or even a Californian!

At a Living Library, visitors are “Readers,” conversation partners are “Living Books,” and program staff are” Librarians.” Librarians help Readers choose a Book for a loan period of up to 1/2 hour. During that time, there is an opportunity for quiet conversation, questions, stories, and, hopefully, a sense of common ground.

How are Books Chosen?

The Library invites anyone who has felt him or herself to be the object of stereotyping or misunderstanding to apply to become a Living Library Book. This can be done by emailing the program at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  or phoning 206.842.4162 ext. 9802. Living Books should be comfortable talking with a range of different “Readers,” be good listeners as well as talkers, be able to clearly explain their lifestyles, culture, or viewpoints without advocating, and have a willingness to help people learn about differences in an honest, respectful way.

"I enjoyed the experience very much. Many of my readers told me about their own experiences of prejudice or discrimination, so my sessions were very much about sharing experiences. Future books need to approach the experience with a sense of humour and readers should not be afraid to ask all the questions they have always wanted to ask."
                                                           Book from a British Living Library

What is a Living Library?

Founded in 2000 by Danish antiviolence campaigner Ronni Abergel and now active in twelve countries and Australia, the Living Library will be making its North American debut in October 2008. As an official launch site, Bainbridge Island will play an important role in bringing the Living Library – with its message of diversity, respect, and tolerance – to the United States. The Living Library program is co-sponsored by the Bainbridge Island Arts and Humanities Council. Local program partners include the Bainbridge Island Historical Society, the City of Bainbridge Island, Just Know Coalition, the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community, and Helpline House. Funding support is provided by the Bainbridge Island Arts and Humanities Council. The “Living Library” concept is used with permission from The Living Library Network Organization.

Kitsap Regional Library serves the community as a center for lifelong learning and a steward of access to stories, information and knowledge.
                                                                               KRL Mission Statement