Ronni Abergel of Copenhagen has always been curiousthe lives of other people. In 2000, with his brother and friends, he launched the Human Library,(fill) it with "human books" — volunteers recruited from often-stigmatized backgrounds (for example, they may have been labeled as homeless, ADHD, Muslim, or obese). "I wanted to create a safe placeit was okay to ask other people questions," Abergel says.
The first Human Library(hold) at a music festival, and the concept caught on. More than 85 countries now have human libraries, often in actual libraries. People can browse the catalogue and check out a "human book" for 30 minutes. "It'schance to see what it's like to walk in their shoes, and to dispel fear," says Abergel, adding that the organization trains applicants(ensure) they'll be open-minded and genuine.
In 2020, the Human Library went online for the first time. Weekly virtual sessions are available and are(typical) fully booked with participants from around the world. Abergel says it takes a special kind of person to volunteer as a human book, opening(they) up to whatever is asked.has rewards, too. "This forum allows them to explain themselves," says Abergel. "Who doesn't want to be understood if for most of your life you(misunderstand)?"
