When compared with other European countries, Poland is a country with high prejudice ratings (Zick, Kupper, Hovermann, 2011). Since 2007, “Living Libraries” have been organised in Poland – events in the course of which representatives of minorities stand in for books. The Council of Europe recommends the method as a discrimination-preventing activity. Over 80 “Living Libraries” have been organised by over 50 entities in Poland so far. In 2014, the Diversja and Lambda Warsaw associations held a questionnaire-based study concerning the experience and needs of 21 “Living Library” organisers. It turned out that their level of preparation varies: they are sometimes incapable of comprehending limitations and opportunities tying in with the method.
The purpose of the project was to improve “Living Library” competencies of entities operating outside large cities, and to provide access to resources facilitating event delivery.
The project allowed 73 persons to expand their skills of organising “Living Libraries”. A method-dedicated website was set up, downloadable materials included.
“Living Library” organisers attended a 3-day training course and a 5-hour mentoring exercise. Forty-two new “Living Libraries” were organised in the course of the project. A state-of-the-art www.zywabiblioteka.polska.pl website was set up, comprising materials and tools useful when organising “Living Library” events (manual, catalogue, event handling software). The project closed with a Living Libraries Forum attended by organisers and foreign guests.
Project beneficiaries included 73 “Living Library” organisers and approximately 3,000 users. Several thousand persons visited the training material website.
The Lambda Warsaw Association was the project partner, responsible for delivering trainer training and mentoring sessions.