Next EVENT
on the topic of "courage"
Saturday, August 15th, 2026
Mauritius Mediathek, Wiesbaden
For this event, we are looking for interesting “living books.” Do you have any ideas? Which courageous person would you like to talk to?
THE IDEA
Imagine walking into a library – but instead of shelves full of books, you encounter real people.
With our project “In Dialogue with Living Books,” we create a space for meeting, exchange, and new perspectives. In this special format, you don’t borrow a book – you borrow a conversation: a person shares their life story, their experiences, and their view of the world.
The aim is to engage in dialogue – open, honest, and on equal footing. Prejudices and stereotypes are not only questioned, but replaced through personal encounters. This creates direct access to topics that are often discussed only from a distance.
Our living books share their personal biographies in a confidential conversation lasting around 30 minutes. These dialogues set things in motion: they foster empathy, encourage reflection, and inspire action.
We are convinced that genuine conversations touch, connect, and empower. They create new, often unexpected connections – from person to person.
Together, we stand up for solidarity, coexistence, and our shared rights.
The Origin
The “Living Library” concept was first introduced in 2000 by the Danish non-governmental organization “Stop the Violence” at the renowned Roskilde Music Festival. This initiative became the source of our inspiration.
The Wiesbaden project was initiated by the volunteer group DIANA, which has since been actively committed to fostering exchange and dialogue. The organization wif e.V. – Begegnung & Beratung supports and accompanies DIANA’s project, thereby contributing to the continued development of this important initiative.
OUR EVENTS TO DATE
In 2020 and 2021, our conversations revolved around the theme of “Resilience and Migration.” Our “books” were people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds whose life journeys were anything but easy.
With a strong sense of resilience, inner strength, and a clear focus on their goals, they overcame numerous obstacles — and today they are a true enrichment for us all.
The events held in 2022 and 2023 focused on honoring women who played a formative role in the women’s movement. Particular attention was given to women — and also men — who, since the 1980s, have been actively advocating for women’s rights in Wiesbaden.
about us
We believe in the power of personal encounters – in the energy that emerges when people come together to talk, to understand each other, to connect, and to discover common ground.
We are committed to making these exchanges possible because we know how transformative they can be.
We believe in the positive energy that optimistic people bring into the world.
We want to create a space where questions can be asked, perspectives broadened, and new insights gained.
Against prejudice, isolation, and resentment – for more empathy, openness, and togetherness.
Booking and participation guidelines
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Appointments can be booked online in advance via the link provided with each “book.”
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If your chosen book is currently “checked out,” feel free to select another available book or come back at a later time.
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Two readers (a couple, friends, or siblings) may participate in a conversation simultaneously.
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Each conversation lasts 30 minutes, followed by a 30-minute break before the next session.
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Please arrive at the information desk 10 minutes before your scheduled time. If you are more than 15 minutes late, your slot may be given to another reader.
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Conversations take place one-on-one between the book and the reader, though in an open space.
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Only one book can be “borrowed” per time slot.
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Both the book and the reader may end the conversation early at any time.
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Books decide what and how much they wish to share; we ask that you respect their boundaries.
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Recordings, photos, or notes are only allowed with the book’s consent; please switch off your phone while in the library.
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If you wish to contact a living book later, please sign up at the desk, send us a message, or communicate directly during the conversation.
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If you cannot attend a scheduled appointment, please cancel in advance so the slot can be offered to others.
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Our librarians are always available to assist both readers and books – don’t hesitate to ask for help.
