Human Library returns to Cd'A
Elijah Price, left, shares a hug with Jackson Lino, a 29-year-old South Sudanese refugee during the 2018 Human Library event at the Human Rights Education Institute in Coeur d'Alene.
DEVIN WEEKS/Press file
This library doesn’t have books, but it’s full of stories you’ve never heard before.
The Human Library offers real people on loan to “readers” who have the opportunity to look past these "books’" covers and make sense of another’s life story.
This event, sponsored for the past four years by the Human Rights Education Institute, returns to Coeur d’Alene from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29.
“The Human Library is designed to build a positive framework for conversations that can challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue,” said a press release announcing the event. “It is an opportunity to open individuals’ minds in a positive way and help them better understand the misconceptions they may have of others.”
Conversations often begin with timid questions and end with connections as the human “books” share their experiences with “readers.”
“The Human Library is … a place where difficult questions are expected, appreciated and a place where lifetime questions can be answered,” said the news release.
Initiated in Denmark, the Human Library is now a worldwide movement and nonprofit that encourages dialogue that challenges stereotypes and prejudices.
The Coeur d’Alene event offers live reads, which are in-person conversations, and a remote read.
Stories to be featured will include Growing Up New Mexican; Faith In Service: Coming Out to Protect and Serve; Sober Woman; Where Do You Come From?: DNA Doesn’t Lie, and others.
The Human Rights Education Institute is at 414 W. Fort Grounds Drive, near City Park in downtown Coeur d'Alene.
To reserve a spot, sign up at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/copy-of-human-library-live-and-remote-tickets-413793556667