In a library, would you like to check out a book or a person?

Written by Tom Cooper

“The Human Library”*[1] originated in Denmark in 2000 as part of a youth organization called “Stop the Violence.” The idea is straightforward: It is a safe place where people are books who are on loan to readers for a chat. Individuals who represent a stigmatized group in the community volunteer to answer questions from readers in the conversation. Readers choose which volunteer they’d like to “check out” based on their interests and the titles the “human books” assign themselves. 

The concept was designed to build a positive framework for conversations that can challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue. It gives people a chance to connect with someone they may have never had a chance to speak with otherwise.

 All the stories are delivered first-hand by living, breathing human beings.  Readers sit down with their human books for half an hour or so, listen to them share their personal stories, and ask questions. Communication is the goal, and respect and curiosity are the conditions. No two accounts are exactly alike, and readers have the unique opportunity to ask questions and interact with the storytellers.

The topics could range from politics, religion, ethnicity, work to lifestyle or identity. No topic is taboo. The opportunities for discussion and learning are endless:  a residential school survivor, someone who served in the military, a medical person who served during the pandemic, or someone physically challenged. 

The human library idea certainly reflects the scriptures and Christian teaching of knowing and “loving your neighbor as yourself.” ( Matthew 22:37,39)  In this more fractured world, may we have more human libraries throughout our Province through libraries, schools and churches and community centers.

My university professor said, “the greatest way to affirm a person's worth is to listen to them.”  Check out a person and see if she was right.

Blessings, 

Tom                                                    

[1] The Human Library or “Menneske Biblioteket” as it is called in Danish, was created in Copenhagen in the spring of 2000 by Ronni Abergel, his brother Dany, and colleagues Asma Mouna and Christoffer Erichsen.  Link to the human library website, www.humanlibrary.org