A library has come up with an unusual way of providing tales – by turning HUMANS into talking books.
The “Human Library” project is a quirky upstate New York collaboration between the University of Rochester Library and the Rochester Public Library where guests can pick up a human rather than read a story in a book.
That person, or “Human Book” as they are known, tells the person who picked them a story, usually lasting for around 30 minutes. The story is unique to the person and is based around a personal experience or field they are an expert in.
The latest event, held on Jan. 25, saw stories being told about the likes of Vietnam veterans, martial artists, British butlers, and the emotional roller coaster of being paralyzed in a car accident.
Event organizers hope participation in the Human Library project, which has so far seen hundreds of readers attend, will attract more human books in the future, or even encourage visitors to set up Human Libraries of their own.
Aprille Byam, a Human Book titled “Connected Wonder Woman,” said: “It’s been great — reaffirming. Sharing my story again and seeing people’s responses to how I moved forward as a result of what happened has been cool.”
Another Human Book, Ellen Koskoff, added: “This is my third stint as a human book and the reason it tickles me so much is because as a child I used books as a way to escape things that weren’t so pleasant, and I often wanted to live in a book.
“Eventually I came to want to be a book. I was delighted last year when I was asked by staff at the library if I would be a human book. To me, that seemed a wonderful circle, a wonderful way of integrating who I am now with that childhood fantasy.
“So I am very appreciative of being part of this unique experience.”
Shauna Marie O’Toole, a Human Book whose title was “You Can’t Shave in a Minimart Bathroom,” said: “I think the Human Library project is something that breaks down barriers and rips away differences from something that’s strange, unacceptable or bizarre.
“When we understand the stories, there’s more acceptance, and with more understanding, there’s a prosperous society. That’s why this project is so important. That’s why I’m so honoured to be a part of it.”
