E4: Reading Between the Lives

The Human Library is a groundbreaking initiative founded in Copenhagen in 2000, where instead of borrowing books, visitors "borrow" people — volunteers who share their personal stories and experiences to challenge prejudice and foster understanding.

In this episode, founder Ronni Abergel shares the origins of the project, its global expansion to over 80 countries, and the careful process of selecting and supporting "books" to ensure a safe, respectful environment for both storytellers and readers.

The episode delves into the transformative power of these encounters, both for the volunteers and the public, and discusses the challenges of maintaining the project in a changing social and corporate landscape. Listeners hear memorable stories of personal growth and the ongoing mission to break down barriers, one conversation at a time.

E4: READING BETWEEN THE LIVES

A "reader" and a "book" in conversation at the Human Library's Reading Garden in Copenhagen.

A “reader” and a “book” in conversation at the Human Library’s Reading Garden in Copenhagen (Courtesy: The Human Library)

The Human Library is a groundbreaking initiative founded in Copenhagen in 2000, where instead of borrowing books, visitors "borrow" people — volunteers who share their personal stories and experiences to challenge prejudice and foster understanding.

In this episode, founder Ronni Abergel shares the origins of the project, its global expansion to over 80 countries, and the careful process of selecting and supporting "books" to ensure a safe, respectful environment for both storytellers and readers.

The episode delves into the transformative power of these encounters, both for the volunteers and the public, and discusses the challenges of maintaining the project in a changing social and corporate landscape. Listeners hear memorable stories of personal growth and the ongoing mission to break down barriers, one conversation at a time.

Find out more about the Human Library at https://humanlibrary.org/.

Listen below or via Apple Podcasts or Spotify.