Human Library

As part of our National Library Week Celebration, we invite our patrons to participate in one-on-one and small group discussions with a selection of "Human Library Books" - real people in our community who are volunteering to share their stories.  

These conversations are designed to build a positive framework to challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue.  This is a place where difficult questions are expected, appreciated and answered.

If you plan to attend as a "Reader", please register below so we can plan accordingly.  Please note: This event will take place after library business hours with the library "re-opening" for attendees at 1:15. The first conversations will begin at 1:45, last 15 minutes, followed by a 5 minute break to select your next book. The library will not be open for other business.

 This event is generously funded by a grant from Digital Credit Union for "Programs that make a difference in our community." DCU logo

FAQs

What is a Human Library?

Started in Demark in 2000, the Human Library is a global project created with the intention of challenging perspectives which may contribute to misunderstanding, prejudice, and discriminiation. A Human Library provides a safe space for conversation, creating dialogue among participants, bringing people together to learn from each other.

What is a Human Book?

Volunteer books are individuals from all walks of life, including those who have experienced discrimination/marginalization based upon race, religion, sexual orientation, class, gender identity, sex, age, lifestyle choices, disability and other aspects of their life and who want to share their experiences to promote knowledge and challenge stigma surrounding their identity.  We believe that every one has a story to share, and encourage you to consider what aspect(s) of who you are you'd like to share with the Merrimack community.

How does it work?

Similar to any other library, attendees (or "readers") browse through a catalog of human "books" and select the book they would like to learn more about. Once a selection has been made, books and readers will sit down for a 15 minute one-on-one conversation. Readers may ask questions and learn about the life and experiences of the book.  At the end of the loan period, the book is "returned" and the reader may choose another book for check-out, if time allows.

For more information, please contact Library Director, Yvette Couser at ycouser@merrimacklibrary.org 

Spring 2018 Human Library Catalog  (detailed descriptions) 

April, Life of a Psychic/Medium * Barbara, Clowning Brings Light & Laughter * Gerri, Transitioning in Our Community * Hailey, Just a Girl and her Gun * Joshua, Recovering Pornography Addict/Activist * Josiah, I Unabashedly Support and Defend President Donald J. Trump * Karlyn, Highly Spiritualized, but Not at all Religious * Marc, Atheist * Maria, Civil Rights Activist & Author * Maureen & Lou-Lou, A Conversation About Disability: The Least Dangerous Assumption * Megan, Happily Childless * Mike, Transgender: Being Male on the Inside * Steven, 15 Minutes with Kurt's Husband

Thank you to all our "Human Book" volunteers who are generously offering their time to share about their experiences.  We are thrilled that you are joining us during the Library's 125th Anniversary Celebration.

Event Details

Contact Name: 
Yvette Couser, Library Director
Contact Phone Number: 
603-424-5021 x108
Contact Email Address: 
ycouser@merrimacklibrary.org
Event Category: 
Event Location: 

Registration

The number of spaces you wish to reserve.
If more than one, separate each name with a comma.
The email to associate with this registration.
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.