Palakkad (Kerala): What if a library lent out people instead of books? At the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Palakkad, that question is no longer hypothetical.

The engineering institute is assembling a “Human Library” — an unconventional project where visitors can read “human books”.

These “human books” will share their stories through conversations, offering readers lessons in resilience.

People who have faced social stigma or challenges related to caste, class, gender, disability, occupation or appearance, and have a unique story to share, can become a “human book” in the upcoming event hosted by IIT Palakkad, an official said.

The initiative draws inspiration from the Human Library movement, which began in Denmark. The institute is introducing a similar concept in Kerala to provide a platform for marginalised individuals to share their personal stories.

“It's a space where real people become 'books', breaking barriers and sparking meaningful conversations,” said Sudarshan R Kottayi, Assistant Professor, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences.

The one-day event is being organised under the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences in association with the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), a flagship programme of the Ministry of Education.

Kottayi, a queer mental health researcher and clinical psychologist, said such platforms are essential for people who face constant discrimination and psychological abuse. He himself has faced stereotypes and discrimination even on the IIT campus, reinforcing the need for such spaces.

“If any change happens in the minds of readers after hearing these stories, it may gradually lead to social change. That is our objective,” he said.

Kottayi has also approached the Denmark-based organisation to get publishing partnership rights. As per the agreement, IIT Palakkad must host the event within a year, tentatively in January or February.

If successful, the partnership may be renewed, allowing similar events in public spaces.

“People from anywhere in India can apply to become human books. But as per the guidelines, no monetary support can be provided; it has to be voluntary,” he added.

Prabhulladas R, UBA project coordinator, said a human library gives recognition to the emotional journeys of marginalised people.

“We are now identifying people with unique stories. Those willing to share can apply,” he said.

Participants can attend the event as readers and “read” the human books by interacting with them.

Seven people have been identified so far, including a person with albinism, a disabled individual, and a transgender doctor. At least 12 books are required to host the event, as per guidelines.

Before the event, the human books will be oriented by the IIT team. Since interactions can include difficult questions, the “books” are free to decline questions they find uncomfortable — by saying “that chapter is yet to be written”, Kottayi said.

The event is expected to draw students, scholars, youths and the general public, IIT sources added.