Going Green

Welcome to The Living Library, PH

Step inside the slow and sacred space of the first ever ethnic-grocer in Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Filipina musician (((O))) behind the counter of The Living Library

Take a trip inside the long-time brainchild of Filipina musician (((O))) A.K.A. The Sundrop Garden. We welcome you to The Living Library!

Inside the Living Library

Built with an educational zero-waste mission, The Living Library offers package-free bulk solutions. They showcase locally sourced items that range from medicinal plants, whole foods, natural home cleaning, to intuitive and native gardening.

Guava leaves are used as a natural alternative for washing wounds

Living Library’s goal is to bring people back to the gifts and magic of plants by honoring indigenous knowledge. 

The Food Library

The Living Library's display of native dry foods

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resting in glass jars are local and native dry foods. Each item in the food library is referred to as a ‘Life Source.’ A book titled ‘The Source Book’ contains information about each ‘Life Source’ including traditional and alternative recipes, folk tales, and how to properly, seed-save, plant, propagate, and harvest.

Different kinds of rice are also available at the Living Library

Behind the counter, a librarian is always ready to help. Take note that the librarian may also be deaf. They will hand each customer some clipboards with order forms for an easy and silent transaction.

Observe Silence

The Living Library values silence. To ensure utmost concentration when learning, the library is charged with binaural beats. Binaural beat therapy is an emerging form of sound wave therapy, often used for focus. Thus, making Living Library the only grocery where shopping and healing go hand-in-hand. 

The Living Library pre-opening

They value fun and social gatherings, too! Once a week they host ‘Cinema Night’ — projecting curated films that tackle art, culture, and awareness. Some days, they also house workshops and talks.

RELATED: “Plant, Plant, Plant” Sows the Seeds for a Sustainable Future

Seed Library

The Living Library eventually sees itself as the island’s seed bank. They encourage locals to educate themselves on self-sustainability through their free program. Through seed saving, “…we celebrate biodiversity, nurture locally adapted plant varieties, and foster community resilience, self-reliance and a culture of sharing.”

(((O))) during the pre-opening of The Living Library

“I see this place as an extended kitchen where growing in my journey of curiosities can be shared with those on a similar path,” said (((O))) on opening The Living Library.

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