Michael McEvoy has chosen to be an open book, literally and figuratively, to challenge assumptions about people like him. A part of the Northville District Library team for the past 25 years, Michael handles all things tech and IT. However, he’s also opened up in a different way—by participating in an event called the Human Library. This global initiative, which began in Denmark in the early 2000s, encourages dialogue, empathy, and understanding among people from diverse backgrounds. At a Human Library event, instead of borrowing books, participants “borrow” human beings who volunteer to share their personal stories and experiences. These “books” often represent individuals who have faced prejudice or stereotypes, and the goal is to break down barriers and foster meaningful connections among people who might not otherwise interact.
This October will mark Michael’s seventh time participating in the Human Library. I asked him why he keeps coming back. He admitted that the first time was challenging. It was a new experience for him—trying to find his voice and share his personal story. But the feedback from those who “borrowed” him made the experience worthwhile. He said that each time he participates, he learns more about himself and how others perceive him. When I asked if volunteering as a “book” puts him in a vulnerable position, he acknowledged that it can, but emphasized that the rewards far outweigh the discomfort.
Michael has been deaf for most of his life. One reaction he often encounters during these events is disbelief, as he doesn’t “sound” like people expect a deaf person to sound. There’s a misconception that deaf people either can’t speak or speak in a way that others perceive as “different.” Michael defies these assumptions. A common question he’s asked is, “What does it sound like to be deaf?” But he says it’s impossible to answer, as his experience of listening to the world is the only one he knows. It’s like asking someone to explain their version of “normal.”
I then asked Michael if there’s a question he wishes more people would ask. He didn’t have a specific question in mind, but he recalled one that left an impression: “How can I better communicate with someone who’s deaf?” While the answer varies depending on whether someone is partially or fully deaf, the simple desire to understand and connect resonated with him.
When we discussed American Sign Language (ASL) and its growing popularity, Michael paused before revealing something surprising—despite being deaf since childhood, he has never been formally taught ASL. He knows the basics, like numbers and the alphabet, but not enough to hold a conversation. One thing he can sign, though, is “I do not know sign language.” This defies another common assumption—that all deaf individuals automatically know ASL. While Michael doesn’t, he appreciates that more people are eager to learn it.
Finally, I asked Michael why he thinks programs like the Human Library are important for libraries like Northville District Library and the Plymouth District Library (PDL). He responded, “Not everyone enjoys reading traditional books—whether paper, hardcover, or eBooks—but a human book can open doors to other types of learning and often have a greater impact.” On a personal note, Michael enjoys borrowing other human books at these events and finds them to be some of the most fascinating people he’s ever met. He always hopes that everyone who participates leaves with more knowledge and empathy than when they arrived.
Michael is particularly excited to bring the Human Library experience to PDL , which will allow him to reach a broader audience than his previous events, which were primarily for college students. As always, he expects to come away from the event knowing even more about himself. We’re both curious—what will he learn this time? Human Library is scheduled for Tuesday, October 1 from 6pm to 8pm,
