Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Break down stereotypes

The idea, which comes from Scandinavia, is simple: instead of books, readers can come to the library and borrow a person for a 30-minute chat. The human “books” on offer vary from event to event but always include a healthy cross-section of stereotypes. Last weekend, the small but richly diverse list included Police Officer, Vegan, Male Nanny and Lifelong Activist as well as Person with Mental Health Difficulties and Young Person Excluded from School. The ‘books’ in the living library are people who are often exposed to prejudice. When you borrow a ‘book’ in the living library, you have 30 minutes to talk to the ‘book’ and ask questions. The aim is to improve understanding between people and break down stereotypes.(more...)

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