Human Library Spring 2025

What is the Human Library?

A Human Library is an event that encourages people from different backgrounds to TALK with and learn from each other. Human Books are volunteers who are willing to share their stories and/or their expertise in person (no writing involved). Participants ("readers") can “borrow” human books for 20 minutes at a time to have a conversation and ask questions about the "book's" topic.

The library is a safe place to have some positive conversations to challenge stereotypes and prejudices, learn about a career, or just to get to know another individual.

History

The first Human Library was in 2000 in Copenhagen, Denmark by the group Stop The Violence. The purpose of this first event was to challenge prejudices, to encourage dialog, and to build relationships.

The goals of every Human Library since have been similar. The event is held in a safe place where people can have open and honest conversations to learn from each other.