Abstract:
A Human Library is a concept that creates a discussion and understanding between
people. It operates similar to a traditional library where users can search and read
books on a range of disciplines. The difference between a traditional and a human
library is that reading is a conversation between the reader and the book. The
reader has the opportunity to challenge the prejudices and discrimination. Even
though the university system is encouraging interactive learning, the interaction
between academics and students are not up to the satisfactory level. The aim of the
present study is to introduce the Human Library concept to enhance the interactivity
between subject experts and students. The concept of Human Library originated in
Denmark in 2000, and since then, has been organized in over 25 countries, this is
the first time it is organized in a Sri Lankan university library. In order to achieve
the above objective the Library conducted a Human Library as a pilot study during
the innovative orientation programme offered for the new entrants to the Faculty of
Arts, University of Colombo in 2016.The event was a collaborative initiative of the
Faculty of Arts and the Main Library of the university and GIZ FLICT (Facilitating
initiatives for Social Cohesion and Transformation).Randomlv 15% of the total
population(650)was selected as the sample (100). Seventeen human experts in
different fields were selected purposively as resource and were classified according
to their specialized subject area using Dewey Decimal Classification system. Both
card and on-line catalogues were made available for students to select human
expertise according to their requirements. Small groups of students (6-10) were
allowed to visit the expert in an assigned seating area and the expert talked to them
on the topic and answered the questions. The maximum time allocated for each
group was about l5- 20 minutes and a new group was assigned consequently. In this
manner the students got the opportunity to talk to several experts during the session.
users as well as the experts were requested to provide their feedback and
suggestions at the end of the event. Quantitatively and qualitatively data analysis
methods were used to interpret data.51.62% of the sample were .Highly satisfied,
with the new experience and interaction they encounter at the human library and
48.38o/o were satisfied. All the respondents were positive with the new
intervention.8l.2%requested to conduct the Human library on other subject specific
domains. Experts were very satisfied with the new experience they encountered and
showed their willingness to participate for such endeavor in the future. The Human
Library which was conducted at the first time in an academic Library in Sri Lanka
as a pilot study was a success. The study recommends to incorporate the novel
concept of Human Library for other faculties in order to enhance the interaction
between academics and students.