Salford residents are being invited to “borrow a person instead of a book” as the city’s Living Library returns next month for a second year in a row.
Instead of sitting down in the library to flick through a novel at Pendleton Gateway community centre on Friday, 15 May, visitors will be encouraged to listen to the experience of so-called “human books,” individuals sharing their personal stories in conversation.
Organisers say that the event at the Pendleton-based community centre aims to highlight real people, real stories, and real connections, bringing together voices from across the community to challenge perceptions and spark conversation.
Running from 10.30am to 2pm, the free event will feature a range of ‘human books,’ personal stories shared by local people in one-to-one or small group conversations.
Tai Roberts, Salford City College’s Tailored Learning Leader, said the event is about more than just storytelling, it’s about connection.
She said: “This is about replacing assumptions with real understanding. When you hear someone’s story directly, it changes everything,” she said. “You can’t scroll past a real person sitting in front of you and that’s where the magic happens.”
The initiative builds on the success of last year’s event, which saw more than 100 visitors attend and hear deeply personal stories designed to break down barriers and encourage understanding across generations.
Among this year’s speakers are Michelle, Grace and Kasia, whom organisers describe as “human books” because they share their personal stories. Each is expected to offer a powerful insight into resilience, identity and change.
Michelle, a mother who struggled with her mental health while raising children and studying, will share how she rebuilt her confidence and went on to create a supportive space for neurodiverse young people.
Grace, who returned to learning after retirement, will talk about rediscovering purpose later in life – proving it’s never too late to try something new.
Kasia Halani, who lost her teenage son to suicide, will also share her journey through grief and how she now helps others through suicide prevention charity Jak’s World.
Visitors will be able to sit down, ask questions and hear stories first-hand.
The project, led by Salford City College Group, aims to create a space where people feel seen, heard and understood. As well as hearing powerful personal journeys, the first 100 visitors will receive a free book voucher.
The event is free to attend and more information can be found here.
