ACU Human Library
Upcoming dates and locations
Brisbane campus library: Tuesday 4 April 2023
Blacktown campus library: August 2023
You can't judge a book by its cover. It's the same with people. What you see is rarely a complete picture of who they are.
Human Libraries provide an opportunity for individuals from different backgrounds to connect with, talk and learn from each other in a safe environment. They provide an opportunity for readers to recognise the deep human dignity in every person and broaden perspectives through the process of borrowing a Human Book for a 20 minute conversation about their lived experience.
Human Books are volunteers from all walks of life, who are willing to share their personal stories. Human Books often represent groups in our society that are misunderstood or subjected to prejudice, discrimination, exclusion or stigma because of their lifestyle, belief, disability, economic or health status, ethnic origin, gender, sexuality, age, neurodiversity, gender identity, mental health or life experience
As a participant at the Human Library, you 'borrow' Human Books for up to 20 minutes at a time. You then have an open and judgement free conversation and ask questions about the book's topic.
How does a Human Library work?
Just like a normal library, books will be available to borrow, engage with and learn from.
Except in this instance, the books are real people with unique personal experiences or perspectives that they are willing to share with readers.
One
Readers register online (walk-ins also welcome).
Two
Attend the event any time between 10 am and 1 pm and borrow an available book.
Three
Sit with your Human Book for a 20-minute chat about the book’s life experiences. Questions are welcomed.
Four
Return your book for the next borrower.
Watch the video below from Network Ten's "The Project" on the inaugural ACU Human Library held in 2021, for an overview of the event.
Contact and more information
The Human Library is an international movement that was started in Denmark in 2000. It is designed to build a positive framework for conversations that can challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue. Since that time, hundreds of Human Library events have been held around the world.
Visit the Human Library Organisation for more information.
For queries about the ACU Human Library email humanlibrary@acu.edu.au.
Guide last reviewed: 3 Nov 2022