Human Library, breaking stereotypes

Recently, I came across a wonderful concept called 'Human Library'. It's simple - instead borrowing books, people 'borrow' humans from this library. In a sense, they are 'books' that talk to you.

I was curious and did some research. This is a Copenhagen, Denmark, based non-profit organisation, started in 2000 by Ronni Abergel and his brother Dany and colleagues Asma Mouna and Christoffer Erichsen. Today, it is operational in 80 countries across six continents.

The basic concept is to create a "safe space for dialog where topics are discussed openly between our human books and their readers", says the website.

So who are the books? It says, "All of our human books are volunteers with personal experience with their topic. The Human Library® is a place where difficult questions are expected, appreciated and answered."

Regular meetup are held, where the 'books' talk, and discuss difficult and complex issues. Efforts made to break stereotypes, and to understand different people, their thoughts, and their lives.

Stereotyping is natural, but it's not desirable. We have to understand and respect differences among of us. This wonderful world is not made up of only one type of people. It is heterogeneous and diverse; and we learn from one another, and live together in harmony.

I found that there are branches of Human Library in India, in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and even in the adjoining smaller city of Mysuru, where the first event was held recently on December 8.

I am yet to speak to someone who has been associated with it. But on the face of it, it sounds like a very good, innovative, healthy and positive activity.

I am keen on finding more about it; and volunteering for it. One of the to-do activities in 2020.

Have your heard of Human Library, or are you one of the 'books'? Would love to know your thoughts.