Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Baccalaureate Social Work
Abstract
The Human Library is a global initiative designed to challenge stereotypes and foster dialogue through storytelling and presents a unique opportunity for experiential learning within social work education. This teaching note explores how the Human Library framework can be integrated into social work curriculum in alignment with the 2022 Council on Social Work Education’s Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards, with particular emphasis on Competency 3: Engaging in Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practice. When embedded in coursework, the Human Library enables students to engage in brave and authentic conversations with storytellers who share aspects of their lived experiences, promoting mutuality, empathy, cultural humility, and critical self-reflection. This teaching note outlines the structure and implementation of the Human Library within two courses at Bemidji State University, detailing pre-event preparation, event facilitation, and post-event reflective assignments. Considerations for ethical storytelling, trauma-informed facilitation, and strategies to ensure an inclusive and safe learning environment are also discussed. Findings suggest that participation in the Human Library enhances students’ understanding of diverse and intersecting identities and oppression while developing key social work skills such as active listening, story stewardship, and culturally responsive practice. The integration of the Human Library in social work education serves as an effective pedagogical tool to bridge theory and practice, preparing students to engage in anti-oppressive, client-centered social work.
DOI
10.1891/JBSW-0142
Publication Date
12-2025
Recommended Citation
Paine, Emily M., "Teaching Note - Embedding the Human Library Experience within Social Work Curriculum" (2025). Social Work Faculty Works. 1.
https://pines.bemidjistate.edu/sowkfacworks/1
Included in
Civic and Community Engagement Commons, Community-Based Learning Commons, Gender and Sexuality Commons, Higher Education Commons, Holistic Education Commons, Human Ecology Commons, Humane Education Commons, Inequality and Stratification Commons, Library and Information Science Commons, Migration Studies Commons, Other Education Commons, Other Teacher Education and Professional Development Commons, Quantitative, Qualitative, Comparative, and Historical Methodologies Commons, Race and Ethnicity Commons, Social Psychology and Interaction Commons, Social Work Commons
