Living Library

A living library functions similarly to a regular library, however, the Books are real, diverse, human beings, who teach others about themselves and their experiences through interpersonal dialogue. Experiencing a discussion with a living Book creates an opportunity for constructive interpersonal dialogue and learning between people who may normally not interact.

People who volunteer to participate as Books in Living Libraries often represent groups frequently confronted with prejudices and stereotypes, may have experienced or witnessed social exclusion or indifference at some time in their lives, or are those who have participated in unique life experiences. The Living Library offers a safe environment for diverse people to meet, ask questions, and learn from each other.

For students, this is an excellent opportunity to interview someone different from themselves, and may help fulfill a diversity requirement for a course. (Please check with the instructor to be sure.)

For employees, the time spent having a dialogue with a new book can count as one hour towards their UA Diversity Certificate. Participants in the Professional Development Institute can also receive credit towards their certificate.

For everyone, this is an opportunity to learn from and better understand one another and our cultures.

Twice a year, the University Ombuds Office sponsors the Living Library program. They develop the library's collection of Books. They schedule "check-out" of the Books by Library visitors; and they provide an orientation/training session for the Books. The Ombuds Office is also responsible for securing a space on campus for the three-day event.

The Living Library program was born out of a need to develop intercultural communication on campus in an intimate setting. With the university's increased focus on enhancing diversity, constituent departments wanted to expand opportunities for cultural development.

Living Library events have historically taken place in Europe, in an effort to introduce people to different cultures, professions, and people with different experiences, through interpersonal dialogue. The University of Arkansas held its first Living Library event during the fall '07 semester. The University of Arkansas' Living Library is now held each semester and titled "Don't Judge a Book By Its Cover"

Students, staff, and members of the community have volunteered to be living books, and many members of the university community have enjoyed learning their stories, with an opportunity to interactively ask questions meaningful to the reader.

From November 4th-6th, 2009, the University Ombuds Office (UOO), International Students and Scholars (ISS), and University Libraries’ Diversity Committee are co-hosting living library sessions. The sessions will take place on the following days:

• 10:00 AM –2:00 PM on Wednesday, November 4th
• 12:00 PM– 6:00 PM on Thursday, November 5th
• 12:00 PM– 4:00 PM on Friday, November 6th

To schedule a 45-minute discussion with a book:

1. Look at the complete list of Books offered, along with their descriptions.
2. Look at your selections' availability according to the date and time schedule (PDF).
3. Email or call Mary Honore at mhonore@uark.edu or 575-7096.

All sessions with books will be held in the living room of Holcombe Hall. “Librarians” (representatives from the Ombuds and ISS offices) will be on site to assure scheduling goes smoothly, and Books are returned in good condition.

Light refreshments will be available.