I loved reflecting this week on how we can use stories as a tool for libraries. I think most of us will agree that storytelling is powerful. There\u2019s a reason it\u2019s all around us \u2013 from books, to podcasts, to TV shows, to movies, to sharing a story from your day at the dinner table, to illustrating a point in an argument, to telling a joke. Stories are powerful tools of example and connection.<\/p>\n
Michael\u2019s lecture this week highlighted some cool ways that libraries are embracing the power of stories. I particularly loved the example of the New York Public Library Community Oral History Project, which is using the library\u2019s resources and ability to collect and catalog it community\u2019s stories for future generations. I also liked the idea that stories can come in many shapes and sizes \u2013 whether it be written words, oral messages, photos, or emojis. I tried to create the story of my life through emojis (hope it translates!): \ud83c\udff4\udb40\udc67\udb40\udc62\udb40\udc65\udb40\udc6e\udb40\udc67\udb40\udc7f\ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\uddf8\ud83c\udde8\ud83c\udde6\u2696\ufe0f\ud83d\udcda\ud83d\udc69\u200d\u2764\ufe0f\u200d\ud83d\udc68\ud83d\udc67\ud83d\udc08\ud83d\udc08\u200d\u2b1b<\/p>\n
Stories can also be powerful lessons and can lead to new understanding. They can introduce us to other peoples\u2019 worlds and experiences, making us more open and accepting of viewpoints beyond our own.<\/p>\n
\n\n\u201cStory-based experiences of all kinds can increase listeners\u2019 understanding of diverse groups, demonstrate the value of everyone\u2019s experience, and remind listeners of their shared humanity.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\n(Stephens, 2019).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\nHowever, I\u2019ve always objected to the idea that someone needs a personal connection to someone\u2019s else hardship in order to feel affected by a problem. For some, it seems they don\u2019t think about or care about a problem until it happens to someone they know; when they are immediately confronted by it. We often hear that a victim is \u201csomeone\u2019s child\u201d or \u201csomeone\u2019s wife\u201d \u2013 this is aimed at creating empathy for the victim, making them seem more human, and creating that concreteness that people seem to relate to more easily. But surely there is a middle ground here where folks can care about others without needing a personal connection. Food for thought!<\/p>\n