Human Library: UnJudge Someone

Responsibilities for Librarians:

• Attend the orientation at 9:00am to meet books and set-up the librarian desk.
• Act as point of contact for potential readers.
• Create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for curious onlookers and potential readers and explain the human library concept and process as needed.
• Display the Human Book catalogue for potential readers.
• Record bookings on library check-out cards.
• Fill out library cards for readers with correct time and book title.
• Ensure that all readers have read the guidelines.
• Inform books of upcoming appointments.
• Ensure that all loans start and end at the appropriate time (stop watch provided).
• Keep an eye on conversations to ensure that readers and books are engaging respectfully.
• Ensure that refreshments are available and replenish if needed.
• Ask readers to fill out an evaluation form before they leave.

Useful Hints for Librarians:

• Get to know the content and interesting facts about the “books” in the catalogue prior to the event.
• Be strict in applying Human Library protocol and demand the same from “readers” and “books."
• Document all bookings accurately.
• Cooperate closely with other librarians and “books."
• Use free time to get feedback from “readers” and “books."
• Take good care of “books” and ensure they do not come back damaged.
• Get to know the setting so you can recommend places for discussions, direct participants to the washrooms, and know where to go to replenish refreshments.
• Keep contact numbers handy in case of a problem.