In the best sense of the word, The Human Library is a library of people and their experiences with prejudice. However, instead of traditional paperbound books, actual people are on loan for conversations. The concept is about acknowledging and challenging the prejudice that we all carry towards one another. For that reason – and in that spirit – the Human Library creates an intentional, safe space for conversation, where topics subject to taboo, marginalization, or stigmatization can be openly addressed without condemnation. The people acting as Books have directly or indirectly been exposed to prejudice, bias, or discrimination based on aspects of their person, heritage, or life experiences. At The Human Library, we invite all questions and our Books engage in sharing their personal experience with the Readers.
The Derry Public Library will be hosting a Human Library on Saturday, September 26, from 1-4 pm.
Come by during the event to borrow an open Book for a conversation about prejudices and diversity. The concept is simple: check in at the Human Library Lending Desk and receive guidance from the volunteer Librarians regarding the titles available for loan. Select a topic you’d like to borrow, and then enjoy your conversation with the Human Book! All questions on the topic will be welcome, and loans of multiple titles are encouraged.
We look forward to welcoming you at our Human Library!
Have any questions about the event? Interested in volunteering as a Human Book or Librarian? Please contact Heather Walker-White at heatherw@derrypl.org
For more information about the Human Library Organization, please visit humanlibrary.org.