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WHAT IS THE HUMAN LIBRARY?

Our Human Library event is a chance for members of the Purchase College community to enter into conversations that can challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue. “Readers” at the event can check out “Human Books” - Purchase College students, faculty, and staff who have volunteered to share their story to break down barriers based on race, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, class, religion, lifestyle choices, or other aspects of their life. Readers and Books sit down for a conversation to share and understand the experiences of others. The Human Library was founded in Denmark in 2000 and now has events all over the world. 

WHY SHOULD I ATTEND?

Some reasons why: 1.) Because you want to have open and honest conversations that can lead to greater acceptance, tolerance and social cohesion in the community. This is an innovative approach to challenging stigma, stereotypes and prejudices through a non-confrontational and casual conversation. 2.) Because the Human Library is a worldwide movement for social change (in over 80 countries) and you want to experience it. 3.) Because you could meet someone new on campus! An authentic conversation.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE EVENT? AND WHAT AM I EXPECTED TO DO AS A READER?

The readers wait in line to select a book to talk to from a list of book titles and descriptions. A staff member will ask you to come over to meet the reader and you can choose any place to sit and have your conversation. Books share their unique story to a reader/readers. Readers are encouraged to ask questions and/or share as well. These conversations usually last around 10-20 minutes. We provide you with “starter questions,” in case you need some help figuring out what to say.  Just be yourself - that will help to relax you and to relax the person you’re talking with. After the conversation you will fill out a brief reflection. You are also welcome to get back in line and talk to another book! 

WHO WILL ATTEND THE EVENT?

This is predominantly a campus event that is only promoted internally to Purchase College, so attendees will likely be Purchase College students, staff, and faculty. 

CAN I ATTEND WITH MY FRIENDS?

By all means you can come to the Human Library with your friends, however we try to pair each book to one reader. The event is designed for one on one conversations but sometimes the book is okay talking to a group of two or three people, but it is up to each book to decide.

HOW MUCH OF A TIME COMMITMENT IS IT? 

You can drop by any time during the event. You do not need to arrive at the start of the event but do try to arrive at least 30 minutes before the end. If there is a line waiting for books you can review the list of books available and read through some more event information. Conversations with the book you choose could last anywhere from 10-20 minutes. It just depends on the natural flow of your conversation and if you want to ask questions.

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT TO ASK OR HOW TO RESPOND TO THE BOOK’S STORY?

We provide a printed list of suggested questions when you arrive. You can use it to guide your conversation or you can come up with your own.