Create an Opening

A community story-gathering practice about what makes libraries possible

Some of the stories that best communicate the value of a library are not dramatic. They are the brief exchange at the desk, the question someone finally felt safe enough to ask, the resource that opened a new direction, or the quiet moment when a person realized they belonged.

From October 1 through November 30, Create an Opening invites us to gather these small but meaningful stories from library life. Each Monday, we’ll share a prompt to spark an idea. Join the conversation whenever a prompt brings a story to mind.

Share a moment when a library—or someone who works in one—opened a possibility for learning, understanding, connection, or belonging.

Your story might be only a few sentences. You can write about something you witnessed, something you took part in, or something a library made possible for you. Please protect other people’s privacy and obtain permission before sharing an identifiable photograph or someone else’s personal experience.

All contributions and conversation will take place in the Connect space inside the Fosgail Community. Open Membership is free. Come practice noticing what matters, putting it into words, and helping more of us recognize what libraries make possible.

How to participate

  1. Join the free Open Membership tier of the Fosgail Community.
  2. Visit the Connect space between October 1 and November 30.
  3. Share a short vignette, observation, or anecdote in response to the prompt.
  4. Read and respond to other stories as you are able.

Longer stories are welcome, but not expected. A few honest sentences are enough.

Table of contents

Table of contents