BLOOMINGTON – Ivy Tech Community College’s Bloomington campus is hosting the second annual Human Library Project on Tuesday, November 7 and the public is invited to participate. Ivy Tech’s Human Library Project will feature individuals acting as “books” that readers/ attendees can “check out” to learn more about them as individuals, to challenge stereotypes and prejudices. The event will be held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Ivy Tech Community College, Shreve Hall, located at 200 Daniels Way on the west side of Bloomington.

The 17 individuals participating as books have written their own book titles, which will be on display for readers to select. Examples of self-titled books that will be available include, “Mormon,” “Law Enforcement,” “Drag Queen,” “Atheist,” “Transgender Woman,” and others.

The Human Library Project was initiated by Ivy Tech Bloomington’s diversity committee. The committee was awarded the 2016 Nancy Howard Diversity Award by the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce for creating a diverse campus experience through events like the Human Library Project.

Brad Thurmond, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology, says the event was organized primarily to benefit Ivy Tech students. “The Human Library Project is a great opportunity for students to spend time with a person who has a unique experience to share with our community,” said Dr. Thurmond. “It provides a chance for connection as well as a bridge to build empathy and understanding with one another.”

The Human Library Project is a worldwide movement, intended to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding through civil and open dialogue. Background information about the Human Library Project can be found online at http://humanlibrary.org/.

Questions about Ivy Tech’s Human Library Project be directed to Dr. Thurmond at (812) 330-6816 or bthurmond@ivytech.edu.

 

About Ivy Tech Community College

Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.