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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk in someone else’s shoes? What if you could go beyond imagining it… and ask them instead?
The Human Library is a volunteer driven organisation which aims to put people in touch with others they may not normally meet. Originally starting in Copenhagen, The Human Library recently opened a depot in Perth which organises events for individuals to meet their “books”.
Similar to how you would check out the book at the library, a librarian will organise a half hour conversation with a human “book” of your choice. The books are usually people who have experienced some form of discrimination or social stigma. Some of the books available during my visit included someone with AuDHD, a transgender woman, an immigrant and a victim of political bullying.
While you can have a one on one conversation with a book, I chose to be part of a small group conversation. I’m so glad I did. Not only did I learn something from the books, having other people ask questions I may not have necessarily thought of enhanced the sessions.
I had a truly meaningful afternoon. In fact, I “read” more books than I was originally planning to!
The session that impacted me the most was my conversation with a transgender woman. While Singapore is by most measures a modern society, it remains a fairly conservative one where anything queer-related is concerned. It was really only when I moved to Australia twenty or so years ago, that I started to become more aware of the LGBTQI+ community.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to talk to someone from the community. I often feel like I’m asking such stupid questions but the transgender book was graciously patient with my clear inexperience. It felt like time went too quickly. If not for another commitment, I would have signed up for another session with the transgender book.
I can’t help but marvel at the generosity and bravery of the human books to donate their time. Their willingness to shed a light on their lives brings us one step closer to quashing prejudice. Kudos too, to the team who have fostered a safe environment where books feel comfortable enough to subject themselves to potentially difficult conversations.
It is my sincerest hope that one day, the Perth branch of the Human Library can establish a permanent library like they have in Copenhagen. In a world that’s going increasingly digital, human connection is a precious asset. When utilised to educate with grace, kindness and dignity, I can imagine that it would only lead to a more compassionate world.
The Human Library are running two more events during Fringe at the State Library.
Can’t make it? Follow them to keep up to date on where they’ll be popping up next.