SBU’s Third Annual Human Library® Takes On Stigmas and Stereotypes

On a Wednesday in November, the Reading Room in Stony Brook's Melville Library transitioned from its usual place of work and study to a vibrant meeting ground for listening, understanding, and shared humanity at Stony Brook's third annual Human Library® event.

"The Human Library has quickly become the Libraries' signature annual event," said Janet Clarke, associate dean of research and learning at Stony Brook University Libraries.

The Human Library concept is simple: people volunteer to become 'books,' and curious 'readers' spend 20-30 minutes with subjects asking questions and participating in a frank dialogue intended to make an unfamiliar story more understandable. In these intimate conversations, readers are encouraged to approach topics such as autism, growing up deaf, being adopted, and many more with curiosity rather than assumption, and to 'unjudge someone.'

In this setting, even when readers already know a book as a classmate or colleague, they often discover personal stories or facets of identity they had never known.

Clarke noted that in its inaugural year in 2023, the Human Library had 13 'books,' and in this year's event November 19, that number grew to 33, along with nearly 290 'readings,' a 38-percent increase from last year.

"We're especially heartened to see both returning and new 'readers' and 'books,'" Clarke said. "These are powerful success metrics. They affirm that this event is meeting a real need for genuine face-to-face conversations about the stigmas and stereotypes that too often keep us apart as a society."

"Moments like seeing a Muslim 'reading' a Southern Jewish Rabbi reflect a powerful willingness to choose openness and community over division," Clarke added. "Post-event feedback affirmed what we witnessed throughout the day: that readers found the books to be authentic, with many saying that they could relate to the books' stories or experiences, and that we need more events like this."

One 'book,' Mei Lin (Ete) Chan, who also volunteered in 2024, was able to offer hope and comfort to readers experiencing similar challenges.

"Serving as a book titled 'First-Generation Student' was a cathartic experience for both me and my readers," said Chan, an assistant professor of practice in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. "Some of us shed tears and shared an embrace at the conclusion of our conversation. My expectation of having readers who are only first-generation students was wrong. Readers genuinely wanted to learn more. Unlike a passive book, this book-reader interactive experience prompted us to reflect on our own perception of our journey and also learn from others' perspective and experience."

First-time 'book' Aneil Persaud also found interested and sympathetic ears.

"Sharing my story, 'Stuttering Through Success,' at the Human Library allowed me to share that a speech impediment doesn't limit your voice, it refines your strength," said Persaud, assistant director of Student Affairs Events and Initiatives in the Office of Student Life. "Through listening to other books, it re-affirmed that our vulnerabilities are often our greatest teachers. I was elated with my readers, as each of them came from very different backgrounds but shared the same empathy and curiosity for my story."

Students comprised 80 percent of all participants. Freshman Sophia Zou was able to take advantage of the experience as both a volunteer and a 'reader.'

"As a volunteer for the Human Library event, I can honestly say this was one of the most meaningful experiences I've had at Stony Brook so far," said Zou, a sociology major. "By inviting people with diverse backgrounds, identities and life stories, the Human Library gives participants - explorers of the world - a chance to see communities they might not have known, answers to their questions and goals to pursue for a whole life."

Zou also had the opportunity to join a small group discussion as a reader, where - in 35 minutes - she learned about the life of a person who has been fighting mental illness, struggling with the condition, facing stigma on campus, receiving help from others and ultimately saving herself.

"Her story completely moved me. Despite everything becoming difficult due to her illness, she never gave up on herself," Zou said. "I felt so happy that she is having a great time in college with a goal to pursue. Not only did I gain a genuine understanding of what life is like for people facing challenges and what they truly need, but I was also deeply inspired by her optimism and perseverance. The event was so full of positive energy. I can't wait to be part of it again next year."

"I love that University Libraries can host this very 'human' library, and that we have a great partnership with other campus entities to bring this event to the community," said Clarke. "This event is truly a joyful and impactful collaboration and I look forward to it every year. One main thing I continue to learn from this experience is that there is more that connects us than separates us."

The event was sponsored by University Libraries, the Office of DI3, Program in Public Health, Office of Military and Veteran Affairs, and Diversity, Intercultural, and Community Engagement (DICE).

- Robert Emproto