The Human Library Project is a pilot project sponsored by Lewis & Clark Library System that provides our members with a way to connect with colleagues that have expertise in a variety of areas. An example of how this might work would be that Library X has a staff person that is knowledgeable in networking computers, but lacks an after-school program. Library Y has experience in creating successful after-school programs, but isn’t able to network their computers. These two libraries could “swap” expertise and both communities would benefit!

As the project develops, you’ll see information below about libraries and staff people interested in participating and what expertise they can offer or what they need. If you would like to participate, contact Amanda McKay or Kevin Becker.

The Human Library Project takes part of its inspiration from the Living Library. The Living Library is an interactive way to learn about diversity and issues within your community by “checking out” people with different life experiences in an effort to understand those experiences better. The other point of inspiration came from a group of Lewis & Clark Library System member librarians enjoying lunch and discussing issues at their library and what they would like help with.