The Europe Challenge

How a Library Changed My Life was a writing competition held by the European Cultural Foundation in Spring 2024 as part of The Europe Challenge programme for libraries and communities. Six winners were selected from nearly 300 submissions across 47 countries, each showcasing the life-changing impact of libraries. 

Home is Where We Keep Our Books by Abdallah Alghoul

A man reflects on his love for libraries and books, sparked during his childhood in Gaza amidst war and turmoil. A chance encounter with a familiar title at a mobile library in Athens brings back memories of his school library, where he first discovered poetry and literature that shaped his life. He recalls growing up with the words of Palestinian poets and the pivotal moment when a missing section of a book became an obsession. Now, in Athens, he finds solace in books and libraries, a refuge in his constant search for a place to call home.

Watch the video below or click here to read the full story.

From Kyiv to Wigan, a Journey of Hope by Svitlana Rykychynska

After fleeing to the UK as refugees, a mother and her teenage daughter struggle to adjust to their new life, with isolation and illness casting a shadow over their days. Desperate to break the tension, they stumble upon a city library, where an unexpected encounter changes everything. Through the kindness of a librarian and a newfound routine, the daughter begins to thrive again, slowly transforming their strained relationship.

Watch the video below or click here to read the full story.

Your Complete Library Record by Camilla Macpherson

Charlotte moves to The Hague, seeking comfort in the local library as she adjusts to Dutch life. Among the books and language cafes, she finds more than just cultural understanding—she discovers a budding romance that begins to unfold in unexpected ways.

Watch the video below or click here to read the full story.

Well-lighted Places by Luis Eduardo Torres Sánchez

In this heartfelt narrative, the author reflects on libraries and how they connect people to stories, safe places, and communities. From early encounters with books through pictures to overcoming reading struggles with the help of his mother, the author’s relationship with libraries grows deeper. His journey weaves through memories of libraries that shaped his life, from forbidden poetry to a community library in Athens that became a new sanctuary. Using the Dewey Decimal System as a guide, this story highlights how libraries have offered more than just books—they’ve provided light, comfort, and a sense of belonging.

Watch the video below or click here to read the full story.

A Kindness Repository by Sheryl Man Wai Sze

In her first year working at a small public library in Central London, the author’s romanticised expectations were quickly shattered. She found herself navigating the complexities of serving a wide range of visitors, many dealing with homelessness, mental health struggles, and technology challenges. Her time at the library became a journey of witnessing the rawness of humanity, while also embracing the library’s potential to be a safe and compassionate space for all.

Watch the video below or click here to read the full story.

Every Day for The First Time by Louise Scollay

Clara visits the library every day, yet to her, it’s always her first time in years. She’s greeted by familiar faces who guide her through routines she unknowingly repeats, her memories blurred but her spirit lively. Some days, Clara is confused about where she lives or what she’s searching for, but the library remains her constant—an anchor in her shifting world. Though she may forget her visits, Clara unknowingly leaves a lasting impact on the lives of those who meet her at the library.

Watch the video below or click here to read the full story.

All the videos above were directed and edited by Gilles van Leeuwen, with second camera and lighting by Jelle Klokman, and produced by Kirsty van der Plas.