Human Library

Unjudge Someone
Human Library
(C) The Human Library Organisation

  • The Container, Roland Levinsky Building, University of Plymouth

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What is it like to be born blind?
How do you move on from addiction?
Why do you pray five times a day?
Curiosity and questions are welcome at the Human Library, where the Books are people and reading is a conversation from which you can learn about lived experiences of stereotypes, prejudice and taboo topics.
The Human Library creates a space for people to openly and respectfully discuss subjects that may feel challenging or unfamiliar, without fear of saying the 'wrong' thing.
We all make assumptions about other people we encounter – it's only human, after all. Borrowing an open Book is your chance to explore those assumptions and learn about the person behind the stereotype.
"When my Book came to sit with me, I thought they'd sent the wrong one. She looked nothing like I'd imagined, based on the title I chose. She was so friendly, she could see I was nervous and told me a bit about herself, then invited me to ask questions. Soon, we were deep in conversation and it turned out we had far more in common than I ever could have guessed. I will be thinking about this for a long time. Highly recommend to anyone who is curious about other people and what makes us all unique." – previous Human Library Reader
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Human Library tag cloud Human Library Organisation

Could you be a Book?

We are recruiting new editions to join our bookshelf of Human Books. However you are labelled by society, if you defy a stereotype and feel comfortable discussing your experiences of prejudice, bias or discrimination, we want to hear from you.
No experience required. Training and support will be provided. Applications welcome from students, staff and the wider community.
We will also be recruiting a team of Librarians to take care of our Books and ensure the event runs smoothly.
For more information, email thebridge@plymouth.ac.uk with the subject 'Human Library'.
Previous Human Libraries have included Book titles such as Refugee, Wheelchair User, Nurse, Trans, ADHD, Bi-Polar, Child of Lesbian Parents, Chinese, Suicide Survivor, Homeless and many more. Titles for this event will be depend on who volunteers.
Some Books include content that some Readers may find upsetting. Our specially-trained Librarians can offer guidance on content to ensure you have a positive Human Library experience.
We encourage you to book a time slot to help us manage the loans. Please note this does not guarantee a specific topic will be available. You are welcome to attend without advance booking but you may need to wait until a Book is available.
The Container Cafe will be open for you to enjoy refreshments while you wait, or with your Book.

Date: Saturday 10 May 2025
Time: 12:00 – 16:00
Venue: Container Cafe, Roland Levinsky Building, University of Plymouth
Ticket information: Free, booking recommended. Booking link coming soon.
Age restriction: All ages welcome. Librarians can advise on content and recommend suitable Books for younger or more sensitive readers.
Hosted by the University of Plymouth in collaboration with the Human Library Organisation.

More from the Arts & Culture programme

Two students looking at an exhibition in The Levinsky Gallery (rectangle)
Exhibitions
Jill Craigie Cinema
Film
Woman talking at dance meets diversity event
Talks
Woman in traditional Asian dress dancing on stage
Performance
Takács Quartet with instruments in a field (The Bridge Music)
Music
People enjoying the Ocean exhibition at The Levinsky Gallery
About the Arts & Cultural Programme
Andy Cluer and Mary Costello talking in the Levinsky Gallery

Contact the Arts & Cultural Programme team

Arts & Cultural Programme, Roland Levinsky Building, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA

The Levinsky Gallery, Tuesday–Friday 10:00–16:00, Saturday 12:00–16:00, Closed Mondays, Sundays and Bank Holidays

Event photography and video

Please be aware that some of the University of Plymouth's public events (both online and offline) may be attended by University staff, photographers and videographers, for capturing content to be used in University online and offline marketing and promotional materials, for example webpages, brochures or leaflets. If you, or a member of your group, do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please let a member of staff know.