17 Oct
17Oct

Imagine going into the library and taking out a book you’d like to read. Pretty standard, right? But now imagine, instead of reading it, you can have a conversation with it. The Human Library consists of human books and readers: real people. Each of these ‘books’ belong to a group of society or minority of people that is distinct from the mainstream because of their sexual preference, ethnicity, religion or any other differentiating feature. These ‘books’ are segregated or are targets of prejudice and stereotyping. Readers, meaning YOU, are given the chance to take out a ‘book on loan’ which they are curious about or have a prejudice against, and listen to what they have to say.
In a society filled with prejudice and intolerance towards various groups, the Human Library attempts to bridge the gap and allow for dialogue and comprehension to take over. Through this informal and laid-back way of bringing people together, the Human Library also allows for those who may have experienced segregation and prejudice to have the chance to talk to people they may feel identified with.
On the 25th of June the Human Library will take place in the Groninger Forum. Oude Boteringestraat 18 from 11-16. This free of charge event, organized by a group of students in Groningen wanting to make a difference, is open for everyone with an open-mind.

Wat hadden we mooi weer, afgelopen zondag in Groningen! Tijdens Diversity Day 2017 organiseerden we voor het eerst een Human Library in de buitenlucht. Er waren 9 levende boeken 'te leen' en ieder boek voerde gemiddeld zo'n 4 a 5 gesprekken. Veel dank aan alle betrokkenen!

What a nice weather we had, last Sunday in Groningen! During Diversity Day 2017 we organized for the first time a Human Library outdoors. There were 9 human books 'on loan' and every book had around 4 or 5 conversations. Many thanks to all those involved!