Problema 2 · Inglés PAU La Rioja Extraordinaria 2025

The Human Library

Imagine a library where the "books" are real people sharing their life stories. You can ask them any sort of question, and they'll be happy to answer honestly and openly. You don't need a library card; anyone can come and be part of the experience. This is the Human Library, a non-profit organisation founded in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 2000. It helps people with different life experiences understand each other, break stereotypes, and create a more inclusive society by organising conversations between them.

The "books" in the Human Library are volunteers who have experienced discrimination or prejudice due to their background, beliefs, or personal history. They may be refugees, migrants, or members of minority groups who have been treated unfairly because of their ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or other aspects of their identity. The "readers" are individuals who are willing to learn about others and participate in open and respectful dialogues. They can browse the list of available "books", choose one that interests them, and then borrow it for a 30-minute conversation. During this time, they can ask questions freely and listen to the person's story. It's a chance to put themselves into someone else's shoes.

Just like in a normal library or bookshop, the Human Library has a Book of the Month. Each month, it introduces one of its volunteer "books" and shares their story. One example is Daniel Lee from Kuala Lumpur, also known as The Wheelchair User. Daniel explains: "I really enjoy challenging preconceptions about disabled people. A lot of people have good intentions but do not fully understand what we can and can't do. Meeting us helps them change their minds at some point".

In addition to face-to-face interactions, the Human Library has an Online Bookshelf. This digital platform allows users to select topics of interest and join virtual conversations with "books" no matter where they are. Professor Castle, from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, uses this platform in her classes and sees its potential beyond her own teaching.

Although there are a few permanent human libraries, most are not places at all, but events. So far, the Human Library has held events in libraries, museums, festivals, schools, and universities in over 80 countries. In a world where differences may lead to misunderstanding and division, the Human Library helps create more inclusive and tolerant communities.

2. Choose TWO of the following questions about the text and answer them IN YOUR OWN WORDS. (2 points; 1 each)

Responde a dos de las tres preguntas planteadas utilizando tus propias palabras (sin copiar frases literales del texto).

A.

Can you explain what happens from the moment a "reader" arrives at the Human Library until s/he finishes talking to a "book"?

B.

In what ways is the Human Library similar to a traditional library?

C.

What is the Online Bookshelf ?