Reflection Blog 4- Stories

Libraries are a place for research, for leisure, and most importantly, but often forgotten, connection. While libraries hold stories in the form of books and movies, and history, the stories of the patrons are rarely shared. Therefore, in order to become a fully hyperlinked library, all stories must be shared and amplified. In this reflection blog, I will discuss the best way to highlight other stories.

One example of a library encouraging patrons to share their stories is the Human Library. In the Human Library, people are the “books” as they share their real-world experiences with listeners. The purpose of this program is to amplify diverse voices and combat stereotypes and misconceptions. A study conducted in 2021 found that this program was successful in informing the listeners about experiences and perspectives they were previously unaware of. This study is important as it shows how libraries can subvert their traditional services to encourage connection and the sharing of stories.

Another way libraries have highlighted the connection-building aspect of library services is through the Listening Lab. A Listening Lab is a place for visitors to experience new music before checking it out. Mairn and Terrana discuss this idea in an article about the inclusion of vinyl records in their library collection. By adding something like a listening lab, these libraries are giving patrons the ability to interact with new cultures, ideas, and artistic styles in the library. Similarly, this is sharing intergenerational stories by highlighting this analog method of listening to music with younger users. Overall, the Listening Lab and Human Library offer unique opportunities to share and learn from others’ experiences.

References

Aarne-Skidmore, E. (2021). New Study on the Impact of the Human Library. https://humanlibrary.org/new-study-on-the-impact-of-the-human-library/

Mairn, C & Terrana, J. (2022). A Library’s Listening Lab. https://287.hyperlib.sjsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/MairnListeningLab.pdf