Acclaimed “Human Library” to Return to Wilton Library with Invitation to “Unjudge Someone”

Don’t judge a Book by its cover! That’s the message when the acclaimed Human Library program returns to Wilton Library on Saturday, Mar 28. Members of the community are invited to “unjudge someone” at this unique event designed to encourage dialogue and challenge stereotypes and prejudices through one-on-one conversations.

The Human Library features a library of people — human “Books” — volunteers who have directly or indirectly been exposed to prejudice, bias or discrimination based on aspects of their person, heritage or life experiences. At the Human Library, the “Books” are on loan to “Readers” for a 25-minute personal and honest conversation in a safe space, allowing “Readers” to ask questions and learn from perspectives different from their own.

The Human Library is an international movement that started in Denmark in 2000 and is now held in more than 80 countries around the world. In 2018, Wilton Library became the first non-academic library in Connecticut to receive permission from the Human Library Organization to host the event.

“We are so excited to bring the Human Library back to Wilton Library. So many people have asked if we could host the event again because they remember it as such a positive community experience,” said Melissa Baker, Wilton Library’s head of reference, who organized the event. “Everyone has a different story, and this program provides an opportunity to hear directly from someone about their experiences with stigma, stereotyping, or prejudice. We are thrilled to provide a safe environment for people to have open and candid conversations and foster understanding of others.”

ASML is supporting the Human Library program as part of the company’s multi-year partnership with Wilton Library and is sponsoring the event.

“We share the Library’s vision of a welcoming, engaged and diverse community, and this event brings it to life,” ASML Program Manager, Society & Community Engagement Brian Amero said. “By providing a platform for meaningful conversations, this program helps to encourage a compassionate and inclusive community.”

The program will be held on Mar. 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and is free and open to the public; no registration is required. This event is intended for ages 12 and up. For more information, visit the Wilton Library website or email Melissa Baker.