UTA Libraries Breaks Down Barriers, Smashes Stereotypes with ‘Human Library’ Event

UTA Libraries demonstrated its commitment to diversity and inclusion with a “Human Library” event in the library mall on Sept. 19.

The event facilitated open conversations between eight human “books” and students curious about a host of experiences, from immigration to polyamory to fat shaming and more. Participants had thirty minutes to “read” the books and pose questions that challenged prejudice.

“We are committed to promoting and celebrating diversity at UTA,” said Rebecca Bichel, Dean of UTA Libraries. “The Human Library event brings the UTA community together to learn from one another’s experiences and broaden our understanding of what it means to be human.”

Milaun Murry, UTA Libraries Experiential Learning Outreach & Events Specialist, says the event was a success.

“This is the second year we have participated in the Human Library, and it was definitely our best event yet,” Murry said. “We hope those who participated share what they’ve learned and continue the work of cultivating community on campus.”

Rashad Harrison, a UTA alumnus from the class of 2019, happened upon the event while walking his dog, Bevo, and decided to participate. 

“The term, ‘Human Library’…it spoke to my curiosity,” Harrison said. “I can definitely say it was a great experience.”

The alum recommends the event to those looking for new and different perspectives.

“The Human Library teaches a lot of people about diversity,” Harrison said. “If you want to learn something, I would suggest coming out here.”

The Human Library or “Menneskebiblioteket” as it is called in Danish, was created in Copenhagen in the spring of 2000 by Ronni Abergel and his brother Dany and colleagues Asma Mouna and Christoffer Erichsen. Human Library events have been hosted on six continents in more than 80 countries.