We would like to invite you and your students to participate in a unique opportunity this winter term – The Oregon State University “Human Library.” A human library functions similarly to a regular library, however, the Books are real, human beings, who teach others about themselves and their experiences through interpersonal dialogue. Experiencing a discussion with a human Book creates an opportunity for constructive interpersonal dialogue and learning between people who may normally not interact. Human Books are those who are members of groups frequently confronted with prejudices and stereotypes, may have experienced or witnessed social exclusion or indifference at some time in their lives, or are those who have participated in unique life experiences. The Human Library offers a comfortable environment for diverse people to meet, ask questions, and learn from each other. We would like to encourage students to participate. This could be an opportunity for a student to learn from someone on a topic related to your curriculum, fulfill a diversity requirement, demonstrate an ability to have a thoughtful intercultural dialogue, or earn extra credit for a class.
On February 9th and 10th, 2016, the Valley Library, University Ombuds Office and Graduate School, are co-hosting Human Library “reading” sessions, from 12:00pm-5:00pm on Tuesday, and 10:00am-3:00pm on Wednesday. The event is titled “Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover.” Participants who wish to “check out” a Book can schedule a 45 minute discussion session with a specific Book or drop by the library for a 30 minute discussion with an “on call” Book. Light refreshments will be available.
We look forward to working with you as part of this year’s inaugural event! If you have questions regarding how the Human Library might fit into your curriculum, or any general questions about the event, please contact the University Ombuds Office at 737-4537. University-wide announcements regarding the event will begin in January 2016.
Sue Theiss, University Ombuds Office & Brenda McComb, Dean of the Graduate School
