Many bookworms have likely wondered what it would be like if books came to life.
Well, in a way, they are in Squamish with the upcoming human library experience "Person to person: Bridging the Gaps," event.
The event, set for Aug. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., will be at the Squamish Adventure Centre.
Tourism Squamish is hosting the event.
It will be "a festive community gathering that aims to challenge stereotypes and prejudices through dialogue," reads a release about the event.
Not a new phenomenon, human libraries involve individuals, who are like the "books” that attendees can check out and then sit down and “read,” meaning have a conversation with.
The books, or individuals, coming to the Squamish event to be "read" will touch on topics such as their experience or knowledge with neurodiversity, ADHD, musical cognitive therapy, hospice care, new help available in indigenous health, home care assistance, and living with blindness.
Event organizer D'Arcy McCrea, of the Squamish Accessibility Commitment said what he attendees take away from the event is that people who face challenges have an incredible ability to adapt, and a "can-do" attitude.
"These are inspiring stories."
Each conversation is 20 minutes in length, and McCrea said the aim is to have between 20 and 30 human books for attendees to connect with.
Tommy Leung, peer support and program advocacy lead with the British Columbia and Yukon division of CNIB has been a human book previously and intends to be at the Squamish iteration with his guide dog, Elk.
Leung lost his eyesight about two decades ago when he was in university, due to a severe case of Glaucoma.
He said he originally signed up to be a human book out of curiosity and to help reduce stigma in his community.
"I come from a South East Asian background, and it is a very stigmatized thing to have a disability. So, I wanted to be out there to be able to stand up for myself to say that this is not a shameful thing; it is actually part of life.
The meetings will take place outside, inside, and around the Adventure Centre.
The theatre will also be used for screenings and interactive sessions.
Leung has tips for event participants who would like to speak with him.
He says when you approach him, or anyone who has vision loss, introduce yourself and anyone else in the group.
He recalled a situation he ran into where a person was talking to him for some time and then encouraged her child to speak.
Leung said he had no idea the child was there, so it was disconcerting.
In terms of his guide dog, Leung noted Elk is not allowed any dog treats, so please don't bring or offer any.
Also, don't interact with Elk without speaking to Leung first.
"Make sure that you could have talked to me before you talk to the dog," he said.
Beyond that, Leung said he is an "open book," and happy to answer any questions people have.
Find the event on Facebook at Person to person: Bridging the Gaps.
*Please note, this story was updated to replace "vision challenged," with living with blindness, at the request of the CNIB who said that is the preferred language.
