Human Living Library – help us choose a name
January 23, 2025
A Living Library brings people together to share experiences, challenge stereotypes and raise awareness of the lived experience of others. Based on the Human Library movement, a Living Library recruits volunteers to act as human books and tell their personal stories, sharing their lived experiences with staff that choose to “borrow” a human book. It provides a safe space for conversations to support colleagues, share best practice and use the power of personal conversation to positively challenge prejudice or discrimination.
In 2023, the OD team organised an online Human Library event which was well received. In response to the feedback, we aim to launch our own SWB version in April/May 2025.
Our why?
We are committed to creating safe spaces for colleagues to share their stories, learn more about each other and foster a greater understanding of each other. The end goal, to create a sense of belonging for all colleagues.
The Human Library is a global innovative, a hands on learning opportunity that hosts personal conversations designed to challenge stigma and stereotypes.
We truly believe that our version of the Human Library will support our ambition of creating a kind, compassionate work environment.
Help us choose a name
Ahead of launching, we really want you to vote for a name for such a Living Library. Here is the list below for you to choose from or suggest one that best fits our SWB Family values:
- Inclusion Library
- Living Library
- SWB People Library
- Other
To vote, please click here.
If you are comfortable in becoming a “book” and sharing your story with colleagues at one of our future events, please do get in touch with d.mighty@nhs.net and preeti.puligari1@nhs.net