Everyone has a story.
Whether it’s an inspirational tale of overcoming a difficult situation, valuable life advice gained from a unique work experience, or simply something memorable that happened on vacation, we all have stories to share.
So what if there was one day dedicated to sharing these stories with the world?
The Human Library at Lone Star College Montgomery seeks to answer this question. On March 28, 2019 from 10am-3pm, the LSC-Montgomery Center for Civic Engagement will be hosting an opportunity for you to tell your story, while also having the chance to hear the stories of others.
Based on a national program that was founded as a way to help fight stereotypes by giving people a chance to face their biases head-on, The Human Library works by having individuals volunteer as “books”, who can be reserved by “readers” to have a conversation about their chosen topic.
“When someone signs up to be a book, they submit a title, and they will tell the same story for the duration of the event.” Explained Amy Austin, Human Library committee member, “But it’s a give and take. This program is a two-way conversation.”
Michele Richey brought this program to LSC-Montgomery with the hope of not only breaking down barriers, but also building bridges. The goal is to bring in students and staff with interesting stories, along with professionals, unique community members, and anyone else with a tale to tell.
In addition to having an opportunity for everyone on campus to learn about life from a different perspective, there is hope that the stories from those established in their career could provide a roadmap for students and other “readers” who are seeking guidance at this point in their life.
A few examples of stories that have been submitted so far include the tale of a dramatic career shift (going from corporate America to driving big rigs), an ode to personal strength (overcoming an abusive relationship and homelessness), and even an inspirational story about breaking down stereotypes (after facing discrimination from being an immigrant.)
Snacks and drinks will be provided for volunteers, and readers will have the opportunity to ask questions about each “book”, and the story they’ve decided to tell.
Volunteers are still being accepted to join The Human Library as “books”. Interested parties should submit the title of their story and a brief synopsis at LoneStar.edu/MongtomeryCivicEngagement
Sign up today to share your story, and you just might help someone else write a new chapter in theirs.
LSC-Montgomery is located at 3200 College Park Drive, one-half mile west of Interstate 45, between Conroe and The Woodlands. For more information about the college, call 936.273.7000, or visit LoneStar.edu/Montgomery.
Lone Star College offers high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education to 99,000 students each semester. LSC is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., serves as chancellor of LSC, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area with an annual economic impact of nearly $3 billion. LSC consists of six colleges, eight centers, two university centers, Lone Star Corporate College and LSC-Online. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.