Inspiring the next generation: a qualitative study of rural healthcare professionals’ experiences as “books” in a living library

1

The Living Library model connects medical learners with rural healthcare professionals' narratives, enhancing empathy and understanding of rural practice.
2

Rural practitioners serving as 'human books' experience a strong sense of responsibility to share their stories, aiming to inspire future healthcare providers.
3

Story preparation for rural practitioners is emotionally challenging, requiring psychological readiness to engage in sharing personal and professional experiences.
4

Participants in the study reported personal benefits from storytelling, including connection, reframing experiences, and a renewed sense of purpose in their work.
5

The Living Library approach enriches rural medical education by validating storytellers' experiences and enhancing their professional identity and satisfaction.

1