Talk | Healing Power of Books - Introduction to Bibilotheraphy

British bibliotherapist and author Bijal Shah will give a public talk at Reykjavík City Library Grófin entitled: The Healing Power of Books: An Introduction to Bibliotherapy. In the talk, she will explore the history of bibliotherapy and how reading can support mental wellbeing, empathy, reflection, and resilience in everyday life. Bibliotherapy is based on the idea that books and reading can help people understand their own experiences, identify and process emotions, and see their circumstances from new perspectives. The practice has a long history and is now used in a variety of ways in the fields of mental health, education, and wellbeing. “In its simplest form, bibliotherapy is the intentional use of literature to support healing, self-understanding, and personal growth. It may draw on fiction, non-fiction, memoir, poetry, mythology, essays, or other forms of storytelling.” – Bijal Shah Bijal Shah is a pioneer in the field of bibliotherapy and the author of Bibliotherapy: The Healing Power of Reading. She is also the founder of Book Therapy, a platform dedicated to the emotional and psychological impact of literature. She works with individuals, schools, organisations, and within healthcare settings. Her writing and literary recommendations have appeared in The Guardian, BBC Culture, Marie Claire, and Good Housekeeping. Bijal has herself drawn on books as a source of greater wellbeing and quality of life. The talk will be held in English. The event is open to everyone and free of charge. Further information: Þorgerður Agla Magnúsdóttir Project Manager | Literature and Reading Promotion Reykjavik City Library Thorgerdur.Agla.Magnusdottir@reykjavik.is