Malii a Bestseller from the Human Library Book Depot in Chicago
The most central aspect of the Human Library, is without a doubt the books. The people who volunteer to center themselves and answer personal questions, for the sake of breaking judgements and prejudices—and create greater diversity and understanding worldwide. The Book of the month series will focus on one of our many exceptional bestseller from around the world, and allow for a brief view into their experience as a part of the Human Library.
The first book of the month, is 37 year old Malii, a Chicago born native. Malii has been with the Chicago Human Library since 2016, and have participated in events 4-5 times. Malii carries not just one but has decided to offer two topics from the Human Library’s bookshelf: Baha’i and Black U.S. American . One of the most asked question from readers, regarding the title as Baha’i, is simply: what is Baha’i? But when it comes to the title as a black U.S. American:
”I can’t put a finger on a common question. It’s my sense that people think they know the basics about my Black identity, and conversation for this title starts at a more complex level of questioning.”
Whenever readers are asking Malii to summarize her message, then it falls on two very clear pieces of advice:
“First, give yourself some time to reflect on the conversation some point soon after it takes place. And, then consider to encourage friends to attend as readers or volunteer to be published.”
Malii first became a volunteer, and later—a book, at the Human Library, after experiencing the organization at an actual book fair in Chicago.
“It was a very cold day at an outdoor venue, and I sat and talked with a few books and treated the volunteers to hot chocolates and coffee before leaving. I wanted to join a group that demonstrated the kind of authenticity, candor and dedication in promoting conversations that matter between neighbors.”
Malii’s motivation for volunteering at the Human Library remains the same—even after 2 years. “the Human Library treats its volunteers well!”
Although Malii finds it hard to top her initial excitement, about first encountering and learning about the organization. She feels that every single experience as part of the Human Library, has given something of value:
“Every volunteer event offers me fun, meaning and food for thought.”
Besides her own experiences with the organization and the readers, Malii also has some sound thoughts about the Human Library as a whole:
“Beyond a make-sense and feel-good mission, the Human Library makes it easy for the public to take a moment and contribute positively to understanding among society- for their own sake and others.”
To Malii the dialogue and reflection that the Human Library can contribute to the society, is of great value. She also points out, that her personal gain from being part of the Human Library, also is of great value:
“My Faith teaches me to build a world in which we all develop ourselves and one another spiritually. I think both being a part of the Human Library and reading books from the Human Library contributes to this more profound endeavor. It’s an exercise in self-knowing and understanding that there really are no “others.”
To find out more about Malii’s topics, visit: www.Bahai.us or meet her – and many other exciting books – at one of the Human Library’s many events! Visit Facebook for more information: facebook page and Human Library Chicago
