Check Out a Human Book at the Library

Sedona Public Library is pleased to partner with the Sedona International City of Peace and Rotary Club of Sedona for the third Sedona Human Library™ event, on Sunday, September 22, from 10 a.m.  to 1 p.m. at the Library on White Bear Road.
 
The event is part of the Human Library project (www.humanlibrary.org), an international effort that is now local. This global movement for social change has the potential to alter our hearts and minds as to how we regard those in our community who struggle with all kinds of societal judgments and stigmas.
 
It’s easy to judge a book by its cover. But what if you could “borrow” it and sit down and talk with the subject? During the free Human Library event, you’ll have the opportunity to do that. You can select human books, listen to their short presentations, and engage in dialogue with them to gain understanding. The human books will courageously share their stories of being marginalized, categorized, or stigmatized for their differences.  
 
Expand your awareness of the limitations you may have set for yourself. Take this opportunity to connect with people in our community in a whole new and understanding way.
 
This year we have 26 Human Books with stigmas and labels such as:  Biker, Despised Vietnam Veteran, Homeless, Felon, New Age Weirdo, Thug, Untouchable, and more.
 
Human books that will be available include the following titles:
“Looks Ain’t Everything” – Riding a motorcycle, liking tats, and being a hippie don’t necessarily mean you’re a Hell’s Angel.
 
“Am I Sybil?” – One woman’s 30-year journey living with Dissociative Identity Disorder from severe childhood trauma of sexual abuse. Her compelling story describes the internal healing process of this controversial disorder.
 
“Trained to Kill vs. Trained to Heal” – Our military is the best in the world and it’s comprised of ordinary people doing extraordinary things at great personal risk and at great cost. Two retired colonels share their unique experiences of serving in the military and address the current prejudices that still exist.
 
Space is limited. Please register at this link for the Sedona Human Library™ event at: www.SedonaHumanLibrary2019.eventbrite.com
 
Attendees may select from up to three 45-minute sessions. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the sessions scheduled for 10:00, 11:00, and noon to select and locate your book.
 
The Sedona International City of Peace was recognized and established as the 35th city of now over 245 International Cities of Peace. Rotary International is an organization of community leaders who meet regularly to exchange ideas and take action to make their community and the world a better place. The Library’s partnership with these community organizations aligns us all in our commitment in expanding our reach and impact in creating a culture of peace in Sedona.
 
For more information, call Sedona Public Library at 928-282-7714 or visit www.sedonalibrary.org.

​Sedona Public Library
Column for September 13, 2019
Written by Virginia Volkman, Library Director