The Human Library spreading in Thailand

The Human Library got its formal introduction to Thailand at a conference in Korat last week. The 28th Seminar for Higher Education Libraries featured not only a Human Library simulation but also gave the creator and founder of the Human Library, Ronni Abergel the opportunity to give a keynote speech to open the seminar. The event was staged at the University´s Institute for Academic Ressources and Technology and facilitated by the Human Library’s champion in Thailand, Assistant Professor Dr. Khongsak Sangkhamanon.

In attendance were several hundred representatives from Higher Education Libraries from all of Thailand and the idea was very well received and more local Human Library organizers have already confirmed their plans to develop and host local events. The next year will show how much the idea will catch on in Thailand, but Dr. Khongsak Sangkhamanon, already an experienced Human Library organizer, is confident that this was a good a starting point for more events to take place across this upcoming and wonderful nation.

INNOVATION IN THAILAND

Local Human Library organizers had prepared an exhibition for the seminar participants to gain inspiration from Thailand based events. One of the many innovative elements developed in Thailand, was the Human Library readers booklet, developed for students in order for them to take notes on each book they read and meet, thus better being able to utilize the outcomes in their school work.

“I was very impressed with the high quality of events that have been undertaken in Thailand, but I also made the point that local Human Library organizers should not be afraid to present Human Books that represent groups that are heavily stigmatized in the local community. As seen in the United Kingdom, Australia and many other places, often the first approach to the Human Library has too much of a story telling element and little focus on challenging stereotypes and prejudices”, says Human Library creator Ronni Abergel of his experience in Thailand.

NATIONAL CONTACT POINT IN THAILAND

The Human Library is happy to announce that we now have established a national contact point in Thailand for new organizers to get information and share experiences on the adaptation of the concept. Please contact Assistant Professor Dr. Khongsak Sangkhamanon if you are interested in further information about the Human Library in Thailand.

The two day event took place at the Rajamangala University of Technology Isan in Korat, Thailand.

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