JOIN THE CONVERSATION

The Pulse of Reading is an ongoing series of inclusive conversations designed to address the vitality or “heart” of our town.  Facilitated by the Reading Public Library, these gatherings give residents a voice shaping the character and culture of our community.

WHY CONVERSATION?

Very great change comes from very small conversations held among people who care" - Phyllis Wheatley

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Conversations are how we connect, learn, and start to build better communities.  With an emphasis on “problem defining before problem solving,” groups become collaborators in understanding the full extent of a challenge which helps find better and more effective solutions.

In addition, the psychology and neurobiology of in-person conversations enable us to feel empathy for others, be curious about perspectives other than our own, communicate more effectively, and build stronger relationships.

WHY READING PUBLIC LIBRARY?

As the host, Reading Public Library commits to facilitating these conversations and providing a safe, inclusive space for what an engaging community project. We welcome not only individual residents, but also the local governement, for-profit, and non-profit sectors of our community. 

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The library is the perfect place to

• host conversations and gatherings for the whole community.

• coordinate related logistics, facilitators, and volunteers.

• document the process for transparency and archival purposes.

WHY WORLD CAFE?

World Café conversations are based on the principles and format developed by the World Café, a global movement to support conversations that matter in corporate, government, and community settings around the world.

The process is based on 7 principles:

1) Set the Context
2) Create Hospitable Space
3) Explore Questions that Matter
4) Encourage Everyone’s Contribution
5) Connect Diverse Perspectives
6) Listen Together for Patterns & Insights
7) Share Collective Discoveries

For more information, visit http://www.theworldcafe.com/