March 28

This ASK Salt Spring gathering began with a land acknowledgment, recognizing the deep and ongoing work of Indigenous communities in building connections. The discussion highlighted the incredible efforts of organizations like Stqeeye’ Society in Xwaaqw’um. In the spirit of celebrating collective efforts, Sophia shared thoughts on International Women’s Day and the participation of Penelukut Elders, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the voices, contributions, and leadership of Indigenous women in community-building.

The focus of our time together was the Living Library Project: A Space for Connection & Understanding, an initiative championed by Fig (writer and volunteer) and Sophia (library coordinator). Both are passionate about bringing together folks from different parts of our community and creating spaces for meaningful dialogue.

This initiative is inspired by the Human Library Project (https://humanlibrary.org/), which began in Denmark and has since expanded to over 80 countries worldwide. The core idea is simple yet powerful: People, rather than books, become sources of knowledge and lived experience. Readers have the opportunity to “borrow” a person—a “Living Book“—and engage with them in a one-on-one, 20-minute conversation to hear their story.

A key question driving the project is:”If you were a book, what would be your story?“Unlike the original Human Library format, which is typically a large one-day event, the Salt Spring version aims to be more sustainable and ongoing, taking place biannually to ensure deeper community engagement over time.

Purpose & Impact: The Living Library Project seeks to break down barriers and bring people together across differences. It fosters:

• Human connection by encouraging people to share their lived experiences.
• Empathy and understanding, challenging preconceived notions and unconscious biases.
• A shift away from judgment, helping participants to “unjudge” one another.
• Diversity and inclusion, reinforcing the value of different perspectives in an increasingly polarized world.

Through the power of storytelling, the project invites people to step outside their usual social circles, build bridges between communities, and recognize that we are all multifaceted individuals with stories that shape us. 

The conversations are not meant to be counselling sessions or spaces for advice-giving; rather, they offer a chance to listen, connect, and learn from real-life experiences. The act of sharing one’s story – and having it truly heard – is a profound and powerful experience, both for the “book” and the reader.

How It Works & How to Get Involved: The pilot phase of the project will focus on lighter topics to generate excitement and engagement. Some initial themes will include:

• Beekeeping,
• Sailing around the world,
• Travelling,
• Organic gardening,
• Living off-grid,
• And many more life experiences about which people are passionate and want to share.

Over time, the project hopes to expand into deeper, more complex conversations around social issues and personal struggles, helping to combat stigma and broaden perspectives in the community.

Interested in learning about being a volunteer “Living Book?” Email Sophia at svbjackson@saltspringlibrary.com.

When can I begin participating? Upcoming Living Library Volunteer Sessions:

• Wednesday, May 14 & 21 (10:00 am – Noon)
• Thursday, May 15 (1:00 – 3:00 pm)
• Thursday, May 22 (3:00 – 5:00 pm)

Our Library: A Growing Hub for Learning & Innovation: In addition to the Living Library Project, the Salt Spring Library continues to offer a wide variety of creative and inclusive programming including :

• Repair Café (Saturday, April 5, 10:30-1:00): A dedicated space for textile and leather repairs, promoting sustainability and reducing waste.
• FAB Lab: A cutting-edge 3D printing lab, where community members can create mobility or accessibility devices, fix broken items, and explore innovation. The lab has even led to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning opportunities for children and youth.
• Indigenous Cultures & Reconciliation: The library has a growing collection of non-fiction and fiction Indigenous books. It also has a dedicated Reconciliation Reading Group to support deeper learning and reflection on reconciliation and local Indigenous history and cultures.

Whether through the Living Library, sustainability initiatives, or technology-driven learning, the Salt Spring Library continues to be a vibrant hub for connection, curiosity, and creativity. If you’d like to become a Living Book, participate as a reader, or learn more about the library’s programs, don’t hesitate to reach out and get involved. Every person has a story worth sharing, and hearing someone else’s story is a privilege. You can reach out to Sophia at svbjackson@saltspringlibrary.com for more information and registration in a wide variety of our Library programs.  

This ASK Salt Spring gathering underscored the importance of intentional community-building, storytelling, and fostering meaningful conversations. By engaging in initiatives like the Living Library, the community can take small but powerful steps toward breaking down divisions, celebrating diversity, and finding common ground in a world that often feels fragmented.

Want to learn more? Sophia was interviewed by CHiR.fm‘s Damian Inwood. Listen to this interview as well as many more at ASK Salt Spring Answered (https://open.spotify.com/show/14aIItcouBw3unc5ZtgPDL