Human library: Tales from the past - First Nations Australians

"Aboriginal flag mural, Eveleigh Street Redfern, circa 2003" by Patricia Baillie, collection owned and licensed by City of Sydney Archives is licensed under CC BY 4.0.

As part of NAIDOC Week, Azure beach library will be hosting a human library event, featuring several Indigenous elders from the local area who will be sharing their stories and history. This event aims to create an environment for open discussion and dialogue; as storytelling is an integral part of Indigenous culture. Attendees will gain a further understanding of the history of Australia and Indigenous culture, and participants will feel seen, heard, and understood; having been  able to share both their past traumas and their pride in this setting. 

Australia has a complicated history with its Indigenous population, the rightful owners of this land. Many Australians are aware of the history of the land, but not the ongoing and profound impact it has had on First Nations Australians. 

By providing the space and opportunity to ask questions and share stories, we can help to strengthen bonds and connections within our community, provide a deeper understanding of Indigenous history and culture; and figure out how to better help the traditional custodians of this land.

What is a human library?

A human library is an opportunity for learning and growth; where members of the community can volunteer to become "books"; sharing their life stories by being "borrowed" for a conversation by attendees, creating an environment of open discussion that encourages diversity and learning, and aims to remove stigma and prejudice.

Event details

When: 12th of July, 2025

Where: Azure Beach Public Library courtyard

Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Price: Free

Note: To register for this event, you must be a library member. Click here to go to our website and sign up now! Registration is completely free, and gives you access to a world of opportunities!

Questions and enquiries

More information on human libraries can be found here

More information on NAIDOC Week can be found here

For further information, contact the library on (02) 9123 4567 or at library.contactus@azurebeach.gov.au

Post by Erika Hutchings

Unity From Diversity - Let's Bridge Worlds For Australia Day

Image created in Canva

Australia Day serves as a celebration of our nation's vibrant diversity. There is power in forming unity from this diversity, since we all collectively contribute a wealth of knowledge, culture, and prosperity to Australia.

We invite everyone to join us before Australia Day in a special human library event, where we will bridge your world to another through the stories shared by 4 diverse living 'books'. 

These 'books' are:

Larry A Gumbaynggirr elder, whose story speaks to First Nations' enduring connection to the land and Australia's complex history.

Image from Adam Jones

Aisha A refugee from Syria, whose story highlights resilience and hope for those seeking sanctuary in Australia.

Image from UN Women Europe and Central Asia

Sally A second-generation Chinese Australian, whose story demonstrates the impact of generational changes in Australia.

Image from Ai Yah

Edmund An immigrant from the United Kingdom, whose story brings up experiences shaped by migration and adaptation.

Image from Travis Nep Smith

With this event, you can choose one of the above 'books' for a 30-minute session where they will share their story. To register, please do one of the following by 11th January 2025:

• Click HERE for the online registration form
• Send an email to hello@azurebeachpubliclibrary.gov.au
• Call us on (02) 9717 ####
• Speak with a staff member at Azure Beach Public Library

Date: Saturday 25th January 2025

Time: 11am to 1pm

Location: Azure Beach Public Library

Cost: FREE

A complimentary multicultural morning tea will also be served during this event!

Only 16 sessions (4 for each 'book') are available, so be sure to register as soon as possible for a better chance to converse with your desired 'book'.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Any children 12 years or under attending the event will need to be accompanied and supervised by a parent/guardian.

For more information about what Australia Day is all about, click HERE.

Is this the first time you have come across a human library event? Click HERE to find out more about how these events work.

For a translation of this event information in your preferred language, click HERE.

We look forward to seeing you at this event!