The topic that interested me the most during this module was the human libraires. A human library involves patrons checking out a human book, the same way they would a library book, and instead of reading they have an in-depth conversation (Wentz, 2013). Storytelling is something that has existed for centuries, and it was the way that most people shared information when being able to write was uncommon. The idea behind human libraries and human books feels similar to historic storytelling, in the way that it is sharing information through communication. 

The benefits of human books is in creating new conversations between people who would not otherwise meet. People who are chosen for human libraries often have a diverse background or they have experienced something that gives them a unique perspective. Opening up a dialogue with these individuals gives the patrons a chance to reflect on their biases, because they are put into a conversation that pushes them to understand a person beyond their own assumptions (Arne-Skidmore, 2021). The differences between a “human book” and someone giving a “talk at the library” is the longevity. Having something at the library long term makes the experience open to a wider audience, and it creates opportunities for the program to expand as it gains interest. 

References

Arne-Skidmore, E. (2021, August 4). New study on the impact of the human library. Human Library. https://humanlibrary.org/new-study-on-the-impact-of-the-human-library/ 

Wentz, E. (2013, April 26). The human library: Sharing the community with itself. Public Libraries Online. https://publiclibrariesonline.org/2013/04/human_librar/