The Human Library

Learn from the experts

We all used to have huge encyclopaedias at home. Now, they are probably gathering dust in a box somewhere, long forgotten. The internet has, of course, replaced them. As we all know, using the internet was difficult at first. Moreover, the information we found was often repetitive. Back then, libraries were frequently used for basic information searches (and still are). However, there was an initiative that went beyond this. It was a leap forward in learning about a subject from experts: The Human Library.

I was surprised when I heard about it because, at first, it didn't seem like an effective idea. So I researched it.

---

It was founded in Denmark in 2000. Its primary aim was to combat discrimination and challenge the stereotypes and prejudices associated with certain groups of people. Unlike traditional libraries, it adopted the novel approach of “borrowing” people instead of books. The “Readers”, who received the information service, would have one-to-one meetings with the “Books”, who had volunteered for this role. This initiative was not intended to answer the kinds of questions we ask search engines.

The organisation was predominantly made up of people with different lifestyles, beliefs, disabilities, social statuses and ethnic origins. During half-hour meetings, Readers could ask Books whatever they wanted in an appropriate manner without offending the other person. This way, people can form opinions and learn from the experiences of others, rather than being overwhelmed by random information.

Upon reflection, I realised that this could also evoke empathy. When I agree to set aside time to listen to someone's story, I ask questions to satisfy my curiosity, paying close attention to their responses. This fosters an environment of mutual understanding. Moreover, we are aware that some topics are more challenging. Questions that we cannot ask everyone or details that do not always come to mind are more likely to be raised when Books are available to facilitate this. Furthermore, these Books should acknowledge that Readers have come to them to learn and empathise while sharing their experiences. Clearly, a more productive and educational dialogue emerges in a context of mutual respect.

Photo by Kate Bezzubets on Unsplash

This initiative has not, of course, been limited to Denmark. The organisation has played a pivotal role in establishing this movement in dozens of countries. In our country, it has been carried out with the support of university clubs. It is interesting to imagine that there would be different Books in countries with different cultures. While there are many global factors, providing information through people who experience and shape their lives around unique local issues fully captures the organisation's core purpose.

Thus, while encouraging personal development, the frequency of events can also promote social development. This broadens the limited concept of education that we usually associate with school. Reflecting on this, I recalled some teachers who came to give presentations to our class at school. We would go to the lecture hall, listen to the presentations until we got bored, and then misbehave. The obvious point here is that we were forced to listen and ask questions. In the Human Library, we need to act with the same awareness as when searching for books in a library.

I'm not sure what I can say about this organisation's continuity. Acting in an analogue manner actually increases the value of information. In other words, the more effort you put into acquiring information, the more valuable it becomes. The Human Library movement is tailor-made for this. Events could be organised at regular intervals and tailored to the specific needs of schools or companies; for example, by country or sector for companies, and by age group for schools.

What other areas could this movement be usefully applied to? Do you think the expected efficiency can be achieved? What factors could influence the degree of efficiency? I look forward to your comments.