Human Library® at Morrill Memorial Library

Morrill Memorial Library is excited to host a Human Library on Saturday, January 9 from 11:00am to 2:00pm in the Simoni Room.

In the best sense of the word, the Human Library is a library of people and their experiences with prejudice. However, instead of traditional paperbound books, actual people are on loan for conversations. The concept is about acknowledging and exploring the judgments that we all carry towards one another. For that reason--and in that spirit--the Human Library creates an intentional, safe space for conversation, where topics subject to taboo, marginalization, or stigmatization can be openly addressed without condemnation. The people acting as Books have directly or indirectly been exposed to prejudice, bias, or stereotypes based on aspects of their appearances, identities, or life experiences; and they engage in sharing their personal experiences with the Readers. At the Human Library, we invite all questions and encourage everyone to unjudge someone.

Come by during the event to borrow a Book for a conversation about prejudices and diversity. The concept is simple: Check in at the Human Library Lending Desk at the entrance to the Simoni Room and receive guidance from our Librarians regarding the Books available for loan. Select a title you'd like to borrow, and then enjoy your conversation with the Human Book! All questions on the topic will be welcome, and loans of multiple titles are encouraged. No registration required.

We look forward to welcoming you at our Human Library!

About the Human Library®: First started in Denmark in 2000, the Human Library was created as a way to bring the adage of "Don't judge a book by its cover" to life by providing a framework for potentially challenging conversations to take place in an environment where participants feel comfortable. For more information about the Human Library Organization, please visit humanlibrary.org.

Questions or requests for more information about MML's Human Library can be directed to Adult Services Librarian Heath Umbreit at humbreit@minlib.net.

Please note: In the event of inclement weather, the Human Library will be held on Saturday, January 23. Keep an eye on our website for up-to-date information about the Library's hours.