These 5 Thoughts Make You the Perfect Book in a Human Library
If you're reading this, chances are good that you're a human. It's also safe to say that you have experiences that shaped your world view; after all, the stories that make us are the experiences that shape us. We'll also bet that you have at least one experience that makes you think, "Wow, I wish I'd known that a million years ago." Thoughts like that are a sign that your story would be perfect to share in a Human Library, and here are five more thoughts you may have had that mean you should book it to a Human Library event near you and say, "Put me in circulation now."
1. 
"I could open people's minds to something new."

via GIPHY
The first thought of the perfect Human Library book. But what's a Human Library? It's like Inception, but less complicated: People who think, "I could open people's minds to something new," participate in a Human Library event as "books" and share their stories; visitors go to the event as "readers," listen to what the books have to say, and leave with new ideas in their brains that help them better understand the world around them. They start unexpected conversations, help others think of life in ways they haven't considered before, and make everyone leave thinking, "Mind. Blown."
2. 
"My story could seriously help someone else."

via GIPHY
You probably already know some major turning points in your life—that time you learned something deep about yourself, made an impossible choice, overcame a crazy obstacle—or recognize something in the life you're living now. And if you're thinking that what you know could help someone, you're taking those moments and looking outside yourself, realizing that while you've already had that epiphany or faced that challenge, others in your community are about to encounter them for the first time. Sharing your story as a Human Library book makes a tool of your perspectives, and the truth is this: You'll never truly understand how much good you're doing for a stranger, or a friend, by putting your wisdom in the world.
3. 
"Hey, I'm actually pretty awesome!"

via GIPHY
You know it's true, so why not help everyone else see it too? When you're a human book, all you need is a story to tell, so look back on everything you've accomplished. What's made you strong, helped you succeed, or brought you happiness? A Human Library event is your chance to tell the world all about it, and why it matters. Seizing opportunities to share your stories is a nice reminder that bragging rights are always in order.
4. 
"OMG new friends!"

via GIPHY
If you're thinking this, then a Human Library event is definitely for you, because who doesn't like meeting new people? Human Libraries give you a chance to share yourself with others, and to learn about them in return. One of the best parts is that you get to cut out the small talk. When you're a human book meeting a human reader, you won't start with "So where do you work?" or "How about that sports game?" You'll begin with "This is something true about me," and end feeling like you have more connections—and closer ones—to your community than you did before. How wild is that?
5. 
"I. Love. T-shirts."

via GIPHY
A Human Library event wants its books to stand out from the crowd. When you're a human book, you're pretty much guaranteed an addition to your wardrobe that will help you commemorate your storytelling stint forever. 'Nuff said.
If this sounds like you, you're in luck. The DiMenna-Nyselius Library at Fairfield University is hosting its third annual Human Library on November 8, 2018. We're always happy to welcome new stories from students, alumni, faculty, and staff, so check out this clip from our previous Human Library events, then learn how you can share your story in Stag Country.
Last Modified: 05-09-2023 04:16 PM