The Library Where Books Talk Back: Stagg Students "Check Out" Living Stories

Forty Amos Alonzo Stagg High School students had a powerful opportunity to listen to cautionary tales, inspiring stories, and heartfelt lived experiences of eight individuals at the Unjudge Someone at the Stagg Human Library project. 

Made possible by an $830 District 230 Foundation grant, students had an opportunity to “check out” a “human book” for a 10-15 minute conversation, where the “book” tells its story and the “reader” asks questions to learn more. 

The “books”  - with titles like Lost but Found, Ethnicity & Nationality, and Strength in the Struggle- shared stories of substance abuse recovery, stereotypes, and humanitarian efforts. All of these human books are positive individuals who have overcome obstacles and are now making positive impacts on their communities.

According to Stagg teacher Nitya Viswanath, “The goal is to build empathy in our school community while simultaneously helping students develop crucial interpersonal skills for adulthood - such as listening, empathy, curiosity, adaptability, patience, and more.”

The impact was immediate. “If I could plant one seed with one person by telling my story, it would be worth it,” said Andrew alumna Lori Kappel. “My ‘book’s’ story stuck with me and inspired me. It helped make me feel more confident,” said sophomore Seedra Alqaiti. “Everyone has a story - one that pushed them to make them who they are.”

The Stagg Human Library successfully created a safe space for meaningful conversation, broadening perspectives for all who participated. Ted Anton noted, “As someone who didn’t quite fit in in high school, if I can help make students more comfortable, I’m happy to give back by telling my story. I think we can all benefit from a broader perspective.”

The Stagg Human Library gives students a chance to have one-on-one conversations with people, hear their stories, and possibly experience a shift in perspective after listening to the lived experiences of the human “book”.

The Human Library Organization started in Copenhagen, Denmark, with the goal of bringing

together people who wouldn’t normally meet or cross paths, creating a safe space for

meaningful conversation and learning.