The Human Library Organisation, a nonprofit founded in 2000 in Copenhagen, Denmark, provides a safe framework for personal conversations that can help to challenge prejudice, reduce discrimination, prevent conflicts and contribute to greater human cohesion across social, religious and ethnic divisions. The Human Library® is based on the idea that we all carry prejudices and that we all judge. A Human Library® event offers people the opportunity to have a conversation with someone who belongs to a group in society that has experienced stigma, stereotyping, or prejudices.

Thomas Memorial Library is pleased to partner with the Town’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee  to bring the Human Library® to Cape Elizabeth, with support from the Thomas Memorial Library Foundation.

What Is a Human Book?

A person from our community or surrounding areas who is often misjudged or misunderstood based on race, identity, disability, health, occupation, or life experience. These volunteers have opened themselves up to become Human Books for our event.

How Do I Read a Human Book?

By having a 30 minute one-on-one conversation with them in the library during our Human Library event.

What Do I Ask?

Anything you like! This is a day where there are no taboos, you don’t have to have the right words or worry about what you say. 

How Do I Participate?

Stop by the library during the event. You can see the available book titles, and choose one you would like to read. You will then sit down with your chosen Human Book and have a 30 minute conversation in which you can ask anything you like! You do not need to be a resident of Cape Elizabeth to participate–all are welcome!

Find out More!