There have been reports about the existence of a 'Human Library', which has caught the attention of people more so from the countries that are not familiar with it.
In Kenya for instance, citizens are used to the normal library; where they can physically visit and sit there reading, doing their research, discussion or borrow certain books.
In social media, there have been images circulating of people sitting opposite each other, in a manner indicating that they are in a discussion.
The fact-checker has established that the viral images are indeed from a Human Library.
The Human Library was developed in Copenhagen, Denmark in the spring of 2000 as a project for Roskilde Festival by Ronni Abergel and his brother Dany and colleagues Asma Mouna and Christoffer Erichsen.
The library was purposely designed to build a positive framework for conversations that can challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue.
It is a place where real people are on loan to readers.
According to the Human Library Organisation, since its establishment, more than a thousand readers took advantage leaving books, librarians, organisers, and readers stunned at the impact of the Human Library.
With its headquarters in Copenhagen, Human Library Organisation’s idea reached the US and Canada in 2008, and since then it has spread to many countries.
The organisation said that in 2018, the Human Library premiered in Kenya, Panama, and Botswana, among other countries.
“Today our concept exists in more than 85 countries worldwide, known as “Human Library Organization”. The Human Library is present in Asia, Africa, Australia, North and South America, and Europe,” the organisation said.
Interested people who are like an open book and have valuable experiences that readers could benefit from learning about, those motivated to help challenge stigma and stereotypes through dialogue and personal conversations can be part of the organisation.
Edited by D Tarus
