Students gathered at the DiMenna-Nyselius Library to take part in an international movement that challenges stereotypes through powerful conversation.
Last Thursday the Fairfield community came together to participate in the Human Library project. For the third year in a row, the DiMenna-Nyselius Library hosted the event, in which hundreds of students participate in conversations that aim to challenge stereotypes and confront prejudices. Students, faculty, and staff volunteers participate as “books” in the Human Library, offering to tell their personal stories. People who attend the event participate as “readers,” to learn about the personal experiences of the volunteer "books."
This year the Human Library expanded its collection of books with new titles such as “Disabled Body Able Spirit” and “The Clash Between Class and Religion.” Books from last year, or “sequels,” including “ADHD” and “Proud Mother of a Gay Son,” returned to tell their stories. In total this year’s Human Library had 35 "book" participants. For one sequel in particular, the event proved to be more than sharing her own story.
“I talked with people who have loved ones with a similar story to mine, and I appreciate that they came to me for insight. Even though I was the ‘book’ that day, I found myself listening to other peoples' stories. I love that they were so eager to open up and share their own experiences. Every individual has a story so it is important that we all take the time to listen,” said Zoe Smith ’20.
“The Human Library is such an amazing and transformative experience,” shared Julie Mughal, assistant director for Humanitarian Action, Center for Faith and Public Life. "This year, as a returning ‘book,' I had the great privilege to share my experiences as a humanitarian worker and hopefully enable students to explore the possibility of a similar career path, or to become more deeply engaged in issues of global consequence.”
¶¶Ňô»ĆƬapp's Human Library was co-sponsored by the DiMenna-Nyselius Library, the Office of Student Diversity & Multicultural Affairs, the Center for Faith and Public Life, the College of Arts and Sciences, Counseling and Psychological Services, the Office of Student Engagement, Academic Affairs, and Student Affairs.
