Human Libraries: A Place to Share Past and Present

Are you a better listener than reader? Do you relish stories told in the first person? Can you imagine visiting a library where, instead of finding books to read, you encounter people to listen to?

We've made it a reality! The *Jóvenes Dinamizadores Rurales* and the Youth Area of Caspe Town Council have organized our second human library focusing on intangible cultural heritage. The event took place on Thursday, February 8th, at 19:00, at Castillo Compromiso.

We hosted five fascinating "books," individuals who shared their firsthand experiences covering culture, participation, education, society, and crafts. Fifty eager listeners absorbed every detail and nuance, which reflected our rich history and identity.

José Ferrer explained how lime kilns were constructed and operated, pointing out where some inactive ones can still be found. A participant suggested, "It would be enlightening to visit one of these kilns to fully grasp the entire process."

Pilar Guallar, founder of the Caspolina Women's Association, engaged a large group of readers with stories about the challenges they faced pioneering women's participation in a traditionally structured rural society, and how this struggle drove them to advocate for genuine gender equality.

We also heard from Fernando Clavería, who recounted his exile during the Spanish Civil War's aftermath and his subsequent personal and professional development in agriculture in Caspe. He shared his family's innovative agricultural projects which introduced diverse crops and maintained a progressive perspective.

Asunción Piazuelo has dedicated her life to teaching the Jota Aragonesa, a traditional dance and music form. "Originally, during the 'rondas,' we would sing and play in the streets just for fun and socializing. Back in the 1960s, before Instagram, 'rondas' were how boys let girls know they were interested in them."

Celia Franco, a rural school teacher by profession, shared the early years of her career in education.

"It has been challenging yet rewarding to organize this human library open to the entire village," shared Sara and Africa, librarians of the project. "It's gratifying to see how much the participants value these kinds of gatherings and learning opportunities."

This activity is part of the European project "Peripheral Memories for the Future," driven by ten young individuals aged 16 to 17, who have been working since last August to preserve the intangible heritage of Caspe. Following a successful event last December at the IES Mar de Aragón, they are planning a third library session for next April.