Delve Into Real Life Stories at UK’s Human Library Today

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 16, 2018) — There is a lot to be learned from a book, but the human story can be as valuable as any teaching tool in today’s society. In an attempt to learn from others in our community what it is like to live in their shoes and to not judge a “book” by its cover, the public is invited to borrow a “book” from University of Kentucky Libraries’ Human Library™ today (Monday), April 16.

The Human Library™ is designed to build a positive framework for conversations that can challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue. The program allows members of oppressed and isolated communities to share their opinions, stories and life lessons with “readers” who would like to check them out as if they were “books,” bound by a cover and back. One of last year’s participants commended UK Libraries' Human Library event for striving to offer an “open and honest conversation that will lead to greater acceptance, tolerance and social cohesion in the community.”

Often, people are sealed shut and placed on a shelf to never be opened and explored; the Human Library™ gives people the chance to be opened and read in real time, up close and personal through a 10-30-minute conversation.

Organized by UK Libraries Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity Committee and assisted by diversity interns Elisa Diaz and Maya Cleveland, UK’s Human Library™ will offer “book” circulation (or conversations) from noon to 6 p.m. today, April 16, in the William T. Young Alumni Gallery. This event is free and open to the public.

For more information on the Human Library™ at UK, email Jen Martin at jen.martin@uky.edu.