Creating collective memory through Kamishibai – Utilizing a co-designing process to cultivate a sense of community in a multilingual society
Re-conception of the Swedish library space
The project started by investigating the relationship between the library space and the urban community in Araby, Växjö. This area has a high concentration of young immigrants, and the project aims to address concerns about the decreased amount of time children spend reading in modern society.
Natsuko, with knowledge and experience in interior design, observed the changing concept and role of libraries in the community. She noticed that libraries have become vital social spaces for young children and parents from diverse cultural backgrounds. Natsuko thought of creating a new and fun way to encourage reading habits and to create shared experiences for the local community. This led to her co-designing two artifacts: a pop-up book and a set of storytelling dice.
Design intervention
Story-telling dice
Development
Natsuko’s exploration brought back memories of her childhood in Japan. She fondly remembered Kamishibai, a storytelling tradition that was part of the library system. Recognizing the potential of storytelling as a visual communication tool in a multilingual society, Natsuko created a Kamishibai starter kit. The kit helps collaborators understand the structure and performance of Kamishibai, making it easier to coordinate and facilitate storytelling events.
The final design outcome
Kamishibai starter kit set
Design seed
The project resulted in coordinating an event that will take place in collaboration with the local preschool. The event will be facilitated by the library and the theater group, using a starter kit. It aims to provide an opportunity for everyone to rethink the library and the related education system for the future.
Illustration of the Kamishibai event
Further information and details on the project can be found on Diva.
