Based on an effort originated in Denmark in 2000, the Human Library Project is an innovative event experience aimed at overcoming prejudices and facilitating conversations between people unlikely to meet otherwise. In an organizational forum, young people are encouraged to listen to the stories of their elders. Using the analogy of the library, young people take on the role of readers who “borrow” a “human book,” an elder, who sit together and converse about whatever topic they choose. 

In so doing, the Human Library Project confronts several critical issues in Ethiopia relating to the passing-on of knowledge. In Ethiopia, much historical knowledge is not written down, and therefore must be passed along by other means. By engaging with the unfortunately disappearing generation of elders, especially those 70 years of age and older, young people may learn information about history, politics, and culture that may not exist anywhere else. 

If you, your community, your school, local library, or other organization with which you are affiliated are interested in hosting a Human Library, follow this link to request the Human Library Resource Kit which contains all the information needed to participate in this project.