Libraries on Prescription
“Libraries are safe, diverse, democratic spaces. They are trusted spaces. They are human spaces in an age of Artificial Intelligence.”
André Wilkens, Director, European Cultural Foundation
For The Europe Challenge 2023, Athens Comics Library and Refugee Week Greece joined forces in a groundbreaking partnership aimed at designing, testing, and delivering innovative solutions to address local challenges, with far-reaching benefits for all of Europe. Working together to unlock the healing power of stories for people with complex social and mental health challenges.
"Library Prescription" is a cross-sector collaboration of libraries, health professionals and cultural activities to improve mental health and well-being, which was completed in June.
Libraries on Prescription Programme in Greece, which recognizes libraries as integral facets of community life. Especially in times of crisis and socioeconomic adversity, libraries extend a lifeline to vulnerable groups, fostering mental well-being and offering a haven for connection and healing.
Key takeaways from successful library initiatives underscore the significance of inclusivity, well-defined objectives, collaborative efforts, adaptability, ongoing assessment, cross-cultural exchange, community engagement, technological integration, empowerment, and sustainable, long-term planning.
The programme was part of the European Challenge for Libraries for 2023, from the European Cultural Foundation Grant and Democratic Society.
If you are interested in replicating this programme in your Library, we are here to support you and we would love to help and see it flourishing in other Libraries across Europe. Attached is a Step by Step guide on how to set up a "Libraries on Prescription" scheme at your Library.
Sense of Belonging
‘Sense of Belonging’ showcases the 39 initiatives including Libraries on Prescription, created during the Europe Challenge between 2021 and 2023, and tells the back-story: why and how the programme was conceived. Download the copy here
Europe Challenge Slide deck
A slide show featuring the 39 initiatives including Libraries on Prescription, is also a free download. The slideshow is available as a PowerPoint presentation and as an autoplay presentation for TV screens. Find it here
Toolkit for Libraries on Prescription
Download here
Project website
Dates
2023
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