Initiating the “Human library event” in public libraries in Sri Lanka

Abstract

A Human Library emphasizes empathy as an aspect to create better understanding between people and provides a conscious space where people learn more about each other. This study examined the present, means of human library, importance of introducing human libraries and the expansion of this concept within the context of public libraries in Sri Lanka and as well as why we should set up human library concepts in our culture. The critical research carried out to fulfil the objectives in this study. The research found that expansion of human library concept was importance, those are as creating a space of dialogue and understanding, promoting respect for Human Rights, passing knowledge and experience of people exposed to discrimination, stereotyping, prejudices and exclusion and Shaping attitudes of openness and acceptance towards 'otherness’. The vast majority of countries have multicultural societies that have diverse community groups. There are various characteristics, beliefs, arts, knowledge, and other social- factors of different groups of people throughout the world. Hence, through the human library approach humans can share the knowledge and experience of humans. The research recommended conducting new awareness programs to enhance the human library event and encouraging library professionals collecting 'voluntary human books' through reader society in public libraries.