Libraries play a key role in fostering socially inclusive communities. As meeting places, libraries offer a respected, safe and non-judgemental environment, publicly accessible to everyone. Libraries can bring people from diverse backgrounds together, and are therefore, valuable assets for local communities working for social change.

In November 2006 the Lismore community partnered with Council and the library to launch an innovative program to encourage understanding and build better community relations. Since the launch, Lismore's Living Library, Australia's first, has operated on a monthly basis and is now embedded as a key part of the community infrastructure. In response to demand, it also offers mobile services to schools, aged care facilities and festivals.

The Living Library is like a normal library, however, the 'books' are people from groups who have experienced prejudice or negative stereotypes, or just part of Australia's rich diversity. The visitors to the Living Library are ordinary community members who have the opportunity to "borrow" a "living book" for an informal, half-hour conversation. The Library creates a safe environment where people who would not normally meet can engage in constructive dialogue.

Ongoing evaluations have demonstrated the success of the Living Library project in bringing people together who might not usually meet, and how, through a half hour conversation, understanding is increased, attitudes are changed and social cohesion is built.

Based on the Living Library's success, a National Strategy has been funded by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship to support their establishment across Australia. This paper will discuss the development and evaluation of Lismore's Living Library, and outline the National Strategy, Living Libraries Australia, including the resources available for Living Library organisers.