Newman’s First Human Library

Last week at Cardinal Newman we hosted our first ever ‘Human Library’! The event, which took place during lunchtime on Friday was an opportunity for students to learn more about different people, experiences, conditions and more.

Visitors from a range of backgrounds gave up their time to act as ‘Human Books’ so that students could spend some time with them asking questions. Guests ranged from a young breast cancer survivor, to a gay man with HIV, a retired pensioner to a married Lesbian. Each person was given a ‘label’ which then became the starting point for their conversation.

The Human Library concept is an international equalities movement, which promotes social contact and respectful conversation to challenge prejudice, exclusion and discrimination. It gave students the chance to ask frank questions and receive honest answers directly from people who they wouldn’t normally get the chance to interact with.

The event was organised by the Health and Social Care department and was praised by staff and students alike as being a really fantastic idea and a great way to learn more about people who are different to themselves.