Oct 7, 2020 2 min read

Common Ground Teen Center invites you to check out a living, breathing book, starting on Nov. 4.

The teen center will be hosting a Human Library, where the “books” are people with diverse experiences and stories to share with readers.

“There is so much wisdom in each person. My goal is to get teens to learn from the stories of others,” said Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski, founder and director of Washington Health System’s Teen Outreach and author of the “Nonnie” book series. “I want their stories to be empowering to teens. Every story is worthwhile.”

The Human Library is a worldwide movement for positive social change. It started 20 years ago in Denmark by anti-violence organizers, and events have been held in more than 80 countries worldwide at libraries, festivals, conferences, high schools, universities, and companies.

The goal of the Human Library is to challenge the misunderstandings that divide us from one another. The conversations strengthen human connections.

At each event, volunteers – the “books” – will share their experiences with those who “check” them out. The conversations will last approximately 20 minutes. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Human Library events will be offered remotely, with some limited in-person discussions.

So far, about 20 volunteers have chosen to participate in the Human Library and share their stories.

Some of the “book titles” are retired teachers, an attorney, an elected official, a sexuality educator from New York City, and a parent.

“It’s a diverse lineup, racially and gender-wise. We have a wide range of people. It’s going to be a win-win situation for the teens and the adults because the adults will learn things, too,” said Podgurski.

The Human Library series will launch at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 4. For information on the link to view the event, contact Podgurski at podmj@healthyteens.com.