On Nov. 6th The Human Library visited Rock Valley College, giving students a unique experience and a chance to learn about the world, prejudice, and possibly their fellow students as well.
The Human Library is a non-profit organization originating in Copenhagen, Denmark. Thousands of people volunteer to become “human books” and bravely share their stories face to face with others, in hopes of inspiring or spreading awareness about their topic.
In over 70 countries, the Human Library allows people to learn about others from primary sources. The topics range from discrimination, diagnosis, religion, beliefs, and much more.
Duane Wilke, who was in charge of the event, sat down with me and shared some information about the Human Library, and what they stand for.
Duane explains that the Human Library’s purpose is to “Give opportunities for others to meet people they would not normally meet, have a deep conversation, and learn something from them.”
After signing in and deciding which “book” you would like to have a conversation with, you are then taken to a designated area to listen to and learn from that particular person.
For example, I had the privilege of sitting down with Matthew Mellies, a student at Rock Valley College, with his topic being “My Life Being Trans.”
After first hearing about it on the internet, then connecting with Duane, Mathew decided that being a book was something he would like to do.
Matthew was there in hopes of having students take something away from their conversation, as well as being able to “understand that being transgender isn’t a choice, and learn something they didn’t know before.”
Matthew explained, “We tragically live in an intolerant society, (The Human Library) changes mindsets and opens people’s minds. When you have a face to the story it makes it a lot more personal.”
The fact that these stories are so personal creates a unique and everlasting experience for participants. Hearing stories directly from the source may have a greater impact on some people, rather than just reading words on a page.
The turnout at this year’s event at Rock Valley College was of a high standard, but they are hoping for even more participants during future events.
The Human Library is scheduled to visit Rock Valley twice this year. There was the event in November and there will be another one in April of 2020. More details about the event will be posted at a later date.
They are looking for other students to volunteer to be a book and would appreciate anyone who is looking for a place to share their stories. In particular, Duane Wilke expressed his desire to find someone of Muslim descent.
You can visit their website via https://humanlibrary.org/ to learn more about the history and future of the Human Library.
