I'm signing off for the weekend now, possibly to settle down and read a good book.
But even the most widely read of us will not have encountered the books on offer at the human library coming to Leeds next month. Turning the concept of a library on its head, the librarians manning the desks will be actively encouraging you to be anything but quiet.
Instead of traditional paper books, 'readers' actually borrow people, with each title representing a commonly held stereotype or prejudice within society.
Chatting within the informal environment of the library, individuals who under normal circumstances, would never have the chance to meet come together to tackle the taboos and prejudices surrounding the book. The event provides the opportunity to ask frank and sometimes difficult questions which when left unanswered can often help build discrimination.
Idea comes from Denmark
As such the motto "never judge a book by its cover" has never been more relevant.
The human library was the idea of a group of young Danish men after a mutual friend was stabbed one evening on a night out. This incident prompted the formation of the organization 'Stop the Violence', which aimed to raise awareness and mobilise Danish youth against violence.
The Leeds incarnation of the human library is spearheaded by outside the box (otb), a marketing agency located on Cardigan Road and Think!, a company which specialises in using innovative thought as a force for good within business.
Interested in diversity
Tina Catling, one of otb's CEOs, was inspired to organise the event after hearing about its history on Radio 4:
"What really captured my attention was the idea of such a disparate group coming together with the sole aim of gaining insight into the life of someone they would never usually meet.
"At outside the box we are interested in diversity and recognise its value both to members of the team on a personal level as well as the role it can play in innovative thinking, something which is integral to our work as a marketing agency. Cardigan Road is the perfect location for such a project and I'm excited about meeting the people we share a street with, yet know nothing about!"
Join them at noon on 9th September at 116 Cardigan Road to find out more, meet some of the team behind the concept, and get involved.
Have a good 'un!
What do you think to the human library idea/ Have your say in the comments section below.
