Human Library

Tell Your Story!

Challenging Stereotypes and Prejudice through Dialogue

The Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education, in partnership with International Students and Scholars, as well as other campus organizations are thrilled to announce the Spring 2023 Human Library at the University of Arkansas!

The Next UARK Human Library

March 14, 15, 16, 2023 --- Our 20th Edition!

What is the Human Library?

To promote the Chancellor's guiding priority of enriching campus diversity and inclusion, the UARK Human Library will utilize interactive storytelling as a platform to learn about the experiences and perspectives of individuals with compelling personal narratives. The Human Library™ is designed to build a positive framework for conversations that can challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue. We welcome all kinds of diverse stories as a library does, that not only challenge prejudices and stereotypes but also uplift, educate, and encourage readers. The Human Library™ is a place where real people are on loan to readers. A place where difficult questions are expected, appreciated, and answered. The University of Arkansas Human Library started in 2009 but is a part of the larger international Human Library Organisation out of Copenhagen, Denmark that started in 2000. Learn more about the Human Library at humanlibrary.org 

What’s a Human Book?

How do I recommend someone or myself to be a book?

Do you or somebody you know have an interesting story to tell? We would love to have you participate as one of our human books! Fill out this short questionnaire about yourself or the person you are recommending.

What to expect when checking out a book

  • Reserve 45 minutes for an uninterrupted conversation with your Human Book. Please be on time!
  • You will be in a group of 1-3 other “readers” (that’s you)
  • You are expected to engage with your book
  • Be respectful as you may have different points of view
  • Ask questions that may make you feel a little uncomfortable

Ready to see the books that we are currently offering?

Check Out a Human Book

Human Library Terms

  • “Book” – that’s the person telling the story
  • “Reader” – that’s the person listening to the story
  • “Check Out a Book” – Sign up for a 45-minute session and have a conversation with someone
  • “Not Yet Published” – The book doesn’t feel comfortable about that topic
  • “Librarian” – Organizers for this program
  • “Edition” – the number of libraries that we have held

See what “Books” we’ve had in our past Libraries!

Human Library Past Book Titles

If you have questions regarding partnering with us, or if you would like to discuss including the Human Library event as part of your class's curriculum, please reach out to Head Librarians:

Trey Smith: curtisss@uark.edu
Sophia Ordaz: saordaz@uark.edu
Cynthia Smith: csmith@uark.edu

Sponsors:

  • Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education
  • Internatioanl Students and Scholars
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