Let’s Start: First Human Library in Caspe

After four months of meticulous planning, which included international training, project presentations, discussions with community elders, and coordination with local schools, today we proudly launched our first human library event in Caspe, Spain.

The event unfolded at a local high school with first-year baccalaureate students and featured six remarkable "books." These were not ordinary books, but people with incredible stories about rural educators, local customs and beliefs, shepherding, and life in the orchards. Through their narratives, we vicariously savored the most delectable recipes from 60 years ago and journeyed to the therapeutic waters of Fonte.

Pilar Lasheras, a teacher at the Caspe Adult School, shared her book "Ritos y Creencias" (Rites and Beliefs)—a compilation of two religious stories deeply ingrained in our town's culture. Pilar, who attended a training course on intangible cultural heritage last May, remarked, "It's a fascinating project that beautifully melds intergenerational engagement with the preservation and dissemination of our intangible cultural heritage."

Josefina Rufau brought to life "Life in the Huerta," revealing an array of curiosities about country life through tales of games, songs, family, work, and festivals.

The third book, "Aguas de Fonté," was narrated by José Ballabriga, who reminisced about his childhood on a farm near the Fonté Spa, renowned for its healing waters.

One student reflected on the insights gained from the book "Maestra de Escuela Rural" by Celia Franco: "I've learned so much about what school was like 50 years ago. While some aspects have evolved significantly, others, like the sense of camaraderie and cooperation, seemed stronger back then."

In another section of our library, we listened to Carmen Pascual, a local grandmother, as she discussed "Fiestas y Recetas," relating to the gastronomy and social gatherings in our town during the 1940s and 1950s.

Teodoro Franco shared his experiences in "Shepherding," providing a glimpse into pastoral life.

Our team of young librarians expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome: "We've invested considerable effort over the past month in preparing content: contacting our 'books,' conducting interviews, recording their stories, and supporting them during this event. The organizational aspects, such as securing the venue, liaising with the high school teachers, and setting up the space, were challenging but ultimately rewarding. We're thrilled with the result," Pablo and Sonia shared.

This morning was not only enriching but also deeply committed to celebrating and preserving the intangible heritage of Caspe.

We look forward to bringing more books, more stories, more readers, and more shared spaces to our community.