We are excited to have you join us at Renison's Living Library event!
Renison University College strives to foster a respectful living and learning environment for all. Our Living Library event is a venue for students to learn about life/cultures around the world while challenging their prejudices and assumptions. It is an opportunity for Renison to promote acceptance, celebrate differences and encourage an understanding of the needs of our diverse community.
In order to make this possible, it is important that all participants (herein called “book borrowers”), agree to behave with courtesy, respect and civility when participating in the Living Library exercise.
Terms & Conditions for participating in the Living Library
- Sign-in procedures: Before you are ready to take out a Living Book from the Living Library, you have to sign in at the Living Library desk on the event day, located in the Renison Atrium.
- Respect for Living Books: It is expected that all participating Living Books are treated with the utmost courtesy and respect. Book borrowers are encouraged to ask questions they may find scary, embarrassing, or intimidating; however, it is imperative that all book borrowers respect the boundaries of the Living Books and understand their right not to answer any questions that may be uncomfortable. Please remember, all Living Books are donating their personal time as volunteers. The Living Book reserves the right to end any conversation at their discretion.
- Abide by all College Policies: All book borrowers in the Living Library are still required to obey by Renison’s Harassment, Discrimination, and Abuse Policy.
- Duration of loans: The Living Book will be available at a particular station in the Renison Atrium for durations of 15 minutes per loan. You are able to end the conversation earlier if your loan is no longer needed. You are only allowed to borrow one book at a time, and loans cannot exceed 15 minutes.
- What are we supposed to do together?: You can start off by sharing a little bit about yourself and feel free to ask questions about the Living Book’s story and learn more about their personal experiences. Prompt questions will be provided if you are unsure how to begin the conversation.
- Accessing Living Books: The Living Books are available during the event on a first-come, first-serve basis; however, registered participants have priority over non-registered attendees. When arriving at the Living Library, you will see a list showing available Living Books that you can borrow.
Do you have questions before you register?
Speak with Ryan Connell (Assistant Director, Student Experience & Housing) at ryan.connell@uwaterloo.ca or by visiting the Renison Ministry Centre (Room 1108). He will be happy to assist!