Human Library

Human library was also inaugurated by the LG on the day of Jail Mahotsav. The suggestion to open it inside the jail came from the IG prisons inspired by the human library based in Copenhagen, Denmark. People from outside the prison come to the human library for discussion with prisoners on one-on-one basis. These people are usually academicians, professors, counsellors who volunteer to contribute to the cause. The books are also volunteers who have experienced some form of discrimination or abuse and are ready to tell their stories to anyone interested.

                

 OUTCOME

This initiative has helped promote inclusion and diversity by challenging stereotypes and discrimination. It actively encourages people not to judge a book by its cover through human books (volunteers) who have honest and open discussions about their unique experiences with an audience (their readers) in a safe environment.

According to Ronni Abergel, "There are great books hidden in most of us", and this is a chance for those books to be read by others and learn from their experiences.

In addition to the interactions on educational topics, Counselling sessions are held on weekly basis with the inmates. It provides them a space for one-on-one interaction and help them to share their thoughts and feelings in a safe and comfortable area.

• CASE STUDIES
• Ravi mentioned that the human library provided them a space for sharing their personal things with the other person as they felt hesitant to open up in front of other inmates as they felt the fear of judgement.
• Shakti shared that the library and its concept has become his favourite place in the jail as it is a place that makes him feel like himself. He also expressed that human library has provided him an opportunity to think out loud.