Delve into the life story of someone in this unique experience, a global initiative to increase understanding and empathy.
On Sat., April 29 at Central Library, the Human Library comes to Arlington.
At this in-person event developed by the Human Library Organization in Denmark, human "readers" are invited to check out a “human book" for an enlightening conversation. A “human book” speaks to their lived experience as a person who is commonly judged by society for some aspect of their existence.
Our “human books” are volunteers and active members of the Arlington community or the Washington metropolitan area.
“Everyone has a story,” said library director Diane Kresh. “As part of National Library Week, we are thrilled to host this global initiative, the Human Library, that increases understanding of 'others' through open, respectful conversations.”
Attendees, also known as "readers," will be able to borrow "human books" for 30-minute conversations. All human books come with a title and synopsis to help readers select what they would like to "read" (i.e. with whom they would like to converse).
The book will introduce themselves and tell you a little about themselves before you begin to ask questions. If a book you would like to read is not immediately available, you can place a hold for a later timeslot. Readers in a family or small group can check out a book together. All books and checkout periods will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
This event is best for ages 14 and older. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. There is a Code of Conduct and expectations of behavior for participants.
Invited “human books” include: "Blind/Low Vision," "Black Transgender Man," "Tattoo Artist," "Bipolar Disorder," "Anxiety Disorder," "Previously Incarcerated" and "Nonspeaking Autism."
###
The Human Library® creates a safe space for dialogue where topics are discussed openly between our human books and their readers. All of our human books are volunteers with personal experience with their topic. The Human Library® is a place where difficult questions are expected, appreciated and answered.
