Book giving and oysters with Auteur Studios

No. 21 — Wine, oysters and a Seen Library book giving with Auteur Studios

We mingled and browsed books over oysters, wine and cheese and took turns sharing a bit about the things we love that fill our time not our jobs!) and what book descriptors we were drawn to at the moment. From that, it was interesting to see similar feelings come forward — ones about pressures to abide by societal expectations and the efforts to break away from that, the desire for deeper connections and the intentions to be more present and see rest as a privilege, not a reward. It was also the first book giving where there was a large amount of men in attendance. Most of the Seen Library event attendees have been women — with a few men sprinkled in here and there. I have always been so proud that Seen Library has been a safe space for women and it was really cool to see that it could be a safe space for men, as well — to share their feelings openly with vulnerability that other spaces may not afford them and to make new friends outside of their immediate circles. While the gathering was supposed to end by sunset, it was such a welcome surprise that so many stayed through the night, continuing conversations and making new friends.

Get a glimpse of the evening here.

It always surprises me how different each book giving is and how full I feel after each one. This one was no exception.

Always so thankful for everyone who came open and willing to meet new people. And very thankful for Perlita’s Oysters for some of the best oysters we’ve ever had and Dulan Wine and Sanzo for keeping our cups full (all people of color owned, by the way!). And of course to Ailrick, who I immediately thought of to co-host this one because he’s someone I’ve had heartfelt, thoughtful conversations with and I knew he and his studio Auteur Studios would create a welcome space for a Seen Library gathering and the open and honest conversations that tend to come out of them.