A “living library” book and patron from the event at Bird Library in 2019.
Syracuse University Libraries will host its annual “Living Library” event on Thursday, April 2, from noon to 5 p.m. in Bird Library. Patrons will have the opportunity to talk to “living books”—volunteers from the broader Syracuse University community representing a variety of cultural backgrounds and life experiences. Living books engage in 20-minute conversations with patrons in one-on-one or small-group settings.
Event organizers are seeking Syracuse University faculty, staff and students to volunteer as living books. Applications are being accepted through March 6 via an online application form.
“This is a great opportunity to encourage the tradition of oral storytelling,” says David Seaman, University librarian and dean of the Syracuse University Libraries. “It also encourages learning different perspectives from our peers, promoting empathy and inclusion in a safe and supportive environment. In the past, our volunteers and patrons have described their conversations as rewarding, insightful and important.”
Popular topics from previous years have included Native American, Chinese, Indian, Nigerian and Middle Eastern cultures; disability, queer and biracial identities; military life; mental health issues; immigrant experiences; and experiencing homelessness. This is one of several Living Library events offered throughout the region, with support from the Central NY Library Resources Council (CLRC).
