Chatting with a stranger: Margriet organizes Start the Conversation meetings at the Haarlem library
Magazine Margriet is hosting 'Start the Conversation' meetings in libraries across the Netherlands to help people overcome loneliness and social anxiety. A local session is scheduled for November 13, 2026, at the Haarlem city library, featuring a small talk workshop and a guest appearance by columnist Marjan van den Berg.
Magazine Margriet is launching a series of 'Start the Conversation' meetings in libraries across the country to help combat loneliness. Running from September to November 2026, these sessions aim to make it easier for people to connect with strangers by providing practical guidance on social interaction. The initiative coincides with the national Week Against Loneliness, highlighting a commitment to addressing isolation across all age groups.
A specific event will take place at the Bibliotheek Haarlem Centrum on the Gasthuisstraat on Tuesday, November 13, 2026, starting at 1:30 PM. Participants will attend a short course on small talk and have the opportunity to interact with columnist Marjan van den Berg. Tickets for the Haarlem session are priced at 7.50 euros, and attendees will receive a goodie bag from the magazine. These meetings seek to remove the barriers to starting conversations, offering a supportive environment for anyone looking to meet new people.
Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

