Human Library: Home

The Syracuse University Libraries' fifth annual Human Library was held in Bird Library on April 11, 2018 from noon-5 p.m. See some of the coverage:

• Photos from the 2018 event
• SU News announcement of the 2018 event

What is a Human Library?

A Human Library is an event that encourages people from different backgrounds to talk with and learn from each other in a safe and supportive environment. The purpose is to create a positive space for dialogues on challenging topics, to break down stereotypes, and to celebrate diversity within our community. Human books are people who volunteer to share stories about their backgrounds and/or life experiences. During this event, you can “check out” a human book to have a conversation about the book's topic, either one-on-one or in a small group. Participants can “borrow” human books for up to 20 minutes at a time.

This event is one of several Human Libraries offered throughout the region, with support from the Central NY Library Resources Council (CLRC).

We are excited to have the support of a number of other partners on campus. Partners for our 2018 Human Library included:

• Blackstone LaunchPad at Syracuse University
• Center for Learning and Student Success (CLASS)
• Hendricks Chapel
• Learning Communities
• Library and Information Science Student Association (LISSA) at the School of Information Studies
• Office of Multicultural Affairs
• Office of Veteran and Military Affairs
• Renée Crown University Honors Program
• Slutzker Center for International Services

For more information, contact Abby Kasowitz-Scheer (askasowi@syr.edu) or Tarida Anantachai (tanantac@syr.edu).