Human Library Canberra

Human Library Canberra where people are the novels. Flip through these human chapters, read through the personal pages with these interactive biographies that challenge and inspire.

We will have a number of books to read with at the event including: 

Growing Up Torres Strait Islander in Canberra
Samantha is the Editor of Growing Up Torres Strait Islander in Australia and has been in Canberra for over 30 years!  Come and have a yarn with her about what that’s been like. How are we different? How are we the same? Learn more about the Torres Strait and its unique contributions to Australian history.

The Loud Intruder - The Chatter of Tinnitus
Currently, one in three Australians are living with some degree of tinnitus. As there is no known cure for this condition, living with tinnitus can have an impact on a person’s day to day living. Not only can it be an isolating and distressing experience, but it can also have an effect on a person’s health and wellbeing.

Chief Emmanuel goes to Australia: The jump, the fall and the rise above racism

A journey from life as a child in Nigeria and experiences of responsibility. Moving to Australia and beginning studies in Tasmania. Using skills as a marine engineer to make difficult decisions on water to save lives. Experiences in the Australian judicial system after completing studies to then find support to practice and champion justice when discrimination is often met.  

Brave B!tch

A 'Choose your own adventure' story of courage, hope and survival on a quest for future change. stories include topics of Women's Health and Hormones, Mental Health, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Military life, Children with Special Needs, Miscarriage and Pregnancy Loss, Singing, Epigenetics, Neuroscience and mostly the adventures we find ourselves on our journey through life. 

Sustainability and community 
What can we do to embrace sustainability in our busy lives? Can we find community and work together to build sustainable living in our own homes, or with the help of others using Repair Cafes and food swaps. I am always looking for the next thing that can create change and support sustainability. 

The Artist Avenue
A local artist who has managed to carve out his own path to become a full-time artist. This is a journey which he has taken independent of art school, but with the push from his community, he has now found himself travelling the world and community-building in his hometown Canberra.  

What Lies underneath the Smile
A journey through mental illness, including losing a family member to suicide, attempting suicide myself and electro convulsive therapy to treat severe depression.

Lesbian in Later Life, Yay!
I came from the generation where Women were socially conditioned to think, you get married, you have children, and that was your lot in life.  You even lost your job once you were pregnant, there was no promotion as you were to get married and have babies. I was married at 24yrs and at 45, I meet a woman, and something clicked in my brain.  I didn’t have an affair, I didn’t leave my husband for another women, I left my marriage for me, I left to stay alive, I couldn’t live anymore not being me.  I couldn’t keep lying about who I was any more.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity: The Journey of Rabi
In a world where darkness often threatened to overtake her, Rabi found strength in love, family, and community. Born into hardship in the midst of war-torn South Sudan, Rabi’s life has been a series of profound losses, unexpected responsibilities, and moments of extraordinary resilience. A young woman who turned every trial into a steppingstone, and who continues to build a legacy that leaves a lasting mark on the world.

Bridging Worlds: Faith, Resilience & Community

Born in Bangladesh and now calling Canberra home, I have faced migration, adversity, and the responsibility of standing up for justice. As a multicultural community champion, I break cultural barriers, foster empathy and build bridges. Join me as I share my journey of resilience, faith and service.

You will be prompted on check out to indicate which books you are interested in reading. We will try and cater to your preference however availability on the day is limited. 
*The book titles listed were selected for availability on this date, but this may be subject to change. Thank you for your understanding.

You will have 20 minutes one-on-one with the 'book' to listen to their story and ask questions. 

To be a part of this amazing event we ask that you acknowledge and follow the event guidelines which we will ask you to sign on the day:

1. Respect and Behaviour
Be Kind: Treat every Book with kindness and respect. 
Follow Rules: Offensive behaviour won’t be tolerated. 
Be Mindful: Respect others in this public space.

2. Confidentiality 
Keep Stories Private: Don’t share stories without permission. 
No Recording: No photos or recordings without consent.

3. Borrowing the Book 
Respect Boundaries: End sessions early if needed. Safe rooms are available. 

Watch the Clock: Adhere to time limits (clocks displayed).

4. Engaging with the Books 
Listen Carefully: Avoid interruptions; ask thoughtful questions. 
Sensitive Topics: Approach with care and empathy.

Any questions please email communitydevelopment@commsatwork.org