The Living Library, a team initiative of the Dufferin Diversity Network and Orangeville Public Library, is coming to the library later this month.

A Living Library is a face-to-face meeting with individuals who are often subject to stereotyping, marginalization or misunderstanding.

The free event, open to the community, will be held on Thursday, October 22. Readers can start reserving books at 6:30 p.m. with the event starting at 7 and going until 9 at the Alder Street library branch, 275 Alder Street.

The Books in a Living Library are people who are prepared to engage in open conversation about their lives. The Readers can be anyone who is ready to broaden his or her horizon or simply wants to explore or understand an unfamiliar culture or way of life.

"It is a great opportunity to promote the diversity of Dufferin County and to learn about the people that make up our community," said Brandy Robinson, diversity facilitator for the Dufferin Diversity Network.

The Books (individuals) can be reserved for 30- minute intervals. There will be an area in the library where the Book and Reader can sit and engage in an open dialogue, ask questions and learn about each other.

The Living Library project was first developed in 2000 by the Danish youth non-government organization Stop The Violence. The idea has since spread across central Europe and around the world.

Supported by the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Dufferin Diversity Network is made up of individuals from a variety of non-profit groups as well as interested citizens in Dufferin County.

For more information on the event, including a sample of the Living Book titles, you can visit www. livinglibrary.ca. One week prior to the event a selection of the Living Book titles for the Dufferin Living Library will be posted on the website.