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Why is a library more than just a pile of books?

In this episode of Footsteps, host Maddy Nowosad speaks with Kirsten Wurmann, who serves as program coordinator with the Manitoba Library and oversees the Prison Libraries Committee and University of Manitoba Master of Human Rights student Ege Kaymaz who is completing his MHR practicum under Kirsten’s supervision.

Together, they explore the vital role of libraries and librarians in advancing human rights within the prison environment through awareness, listening, relationship building, and resource development to help ensure incarcerated people can access books and information. Both guests reflect on how personal experiences, family influences and relationships have shaped their respective commitments to serving incarcerated people - a marginalized population whose lives and circumstances many of us, as Maddy points out, have limited opportunities to understand.

From Ege’s accessible resources explaining the Mandela Rules to Kirsten’s reflections on participant-led projects and relationships, the conversation considers what realizing human rights requires in practice - and the intergenerational inspiration, community and collective courage that sustain this very human work.

For more information on the Master of Human Rights please visit our website.