The Living Library Sanctuary is home to an extensive collection of ethnobotanical plants from across the world. This space offers us the opportunity to be in service to the preservation and study of these ancient beings as well as the cultural practices that they've inspired throughout the human lineages. The Internship we offer is a synthesis of cultural reverence and hands-on ecological stewardship that reveals these forces as extensions of one another.
We begin learning where academia and the internet end their ability to teach.
We begin learning where academia and the internet end their ability to teach.
What we offer
At the Living Library Community, we offer a unique residency program that blends community living, hands-on learning, and personal growth.
For $250 per week, residents receive:
- A private room with private bathroom (shared shower).
- Basic food staples: rice, beans, lentils, chickpeas, spices, eggs, coffee.
- Access to electricity, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and all utilities.
- Participation in on-site events: community nights, Temazcal ceremonies, elder teachings, workshops, river hikes, and more.
- Natural medicine if needed.
Learn by Doing
Our residency is based on more than 10 years of experience with volunteers, interns, and traditional teaching. Instead of rigid schedules, we value self-investment and experiential learning. Here, knowledge is passed on through service and practice.
Interested in cacao? Learn everything from planting to harvesting, then make your own chocolate. Curious about cactus propagation? Spend time in the greenhouse and work directly with the plants. Ever dreamed of growing your own medicine garden? here we are.
Your path will evolve naturally, guided by your curiosity, dedication, and service to the land.
Organisation
Residents enjoy pure mountain spring water, Wi-Fi access in most areas, and shared kitchens. Community life is beautiful, but it thrives on cooperation and respect. We provide guidelines and preparation tips to help you integrate smoothly.
The nearest town, Tinamaste, is a 20 minute walk with small shops.
San Isidro is the market town, and you’re welcome to join trips there for fresh produce and supplies.
The beach is only 30 minutes away by car, or about 45 minutes by bus from Tinamaste.
If you’re ready to get your hands in the soil, live close to nature, and grow alongside a vibrant community, this program is for you. More info below on how to contact us to apply and begin your journey with the Living Library Community.
WE WOULD BE HONORED TO RECEIVE
- The understanding that the greatest of knowledge is only accessible through hard work and devotion
- We search for people with a profound understanding to our mission and an open heart ready to give and receive.
- Humility Compassion Honesty Integrity and Professionalism
- A one-month minimum commitment that begins on the 1st of each month
- Contribution of $250 a week (including all listed above)
"I recently spent a month at the Living Library as an Intern and it was the most memorable and impactive month of my life. Everything from studying ethnobotany and the foundations of traditional culture daily with an amazing team of people, to adventures beyond the Library which included ceremonial guidance, mountain trekking, the making of plant medicines and sister property training, I was blown away by the impact and reach that Chris and his wonderful team (Laura & Kevin) have on their community.
Being a part of such conservation efforts and traditions gave me a sense of hope that with continued growth people will be able to discover more about themselves and how to heal both their minds and their bodies with the use of plant medicines and an appreciation of mother nature, as did I.
I hope to return to the Library to help the ongoing efforts to build a space where more students and Interns can come and experience what the world is now recognizing as an ethnobotany renaissance. Thank you to Chris, Kevin & Laura for welcoming me into your world and for showing me that there is hope for humanity if we take the time to look within ourselves first."
Cory Powell, Bermuda
Being a part of such conservation efforts and traditions gave me a sense of hope that with continued growth people will be able to discover more about themselves and how to heal both their minds and their bodies with the use of plant medicines and an appreciation of mother nature, as did I.
I hope to return to the Library to help the ongoing efforts to build a space where more students and Interns can come and experience what the world is now recognizing as an ethnobotany renaissance. Thank you to Chris, Kevin & Laura for welcoming me into your world and for showing me that there is hope for humanity if we take the time to look within ourselves first."
Cory Powell, Bermuda
