Books Who Breathe

Angie Ripple  |   Saturday Mar. 1st, 2025

Bozeman Magazine is excited to announce “Books Who Breathe,” an innovative event meant to inspire dialogue between community members who may not have the opportunity to connect otherwise. We are looking to make this a monthly opportunity for local conversation!

At this event, attendees will have the opportunity to “borrow” human books—volunteers who share their personal stories and experiences. Through open and honest conversations, participants can ask questions and gain insights that challenge preconceived notions. This approach fosters understanding and empathy, contributing to more inclusive and cohesive communities.

Upon arrival, attendees/readers can browse a catalog of available human books, each with a title that reflects their experience or background. They then choose a human book and engage in a one-on-one 30-minute conversation. Readers are encouraged to ask questions and discuss the human book’s experiences, promoting understanding, and challenging stereotypes.

Bozeman Magazine is seeking volunteers interested in becoming human books for future events. If you have personal experiences that can help others understand diverse perspectives and are willing to share your story, please consider participating. Get on our volunteer list by emailing us at info@bozemanmagazine.com with the subject line: Books Who Breathe.

We also need curious folks to show up to the events ready for discourse!

A third way to get involved is to provide a space for a future event. If your business is seeking new ways to connect with the community and has space for up to 20 people, please reach out about hosting an event: info@bozemanmagazine.com.

This idea stemmed from a similar event held by the Bozeman Public Library in 2017, and came first from The Human Library® founded in Copenhagen in 2000. The Human Library® is a global movement for social change, hosting events where readers can ‘check out’ human beings who serve as open books, and have conversations they would not normally have access to. The organization aims to challenge stigma and stereotypes through dialogue.

Join us for this enlightening event on March 27 from 5:30-7 PM at LeeAnn Ramey Art, 27 North Tracy Ave., for the opportunity to connect with your community through open dialogue and shared understanding.  

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