Trojan Bookshelf

Here, you will find information and resources to promote dialogue, encourage inquiry, support diversity, and build community. Browse our virtual bookshelf, find supplemental readings, and learn more about your fellow Trojans. 

If you have any questions, please contact Christal Young (Head, Leavey Library & Student Engagement) at youngc@usc.edu

Inspired by the Human Library movement birthed out of Denmark, The Trojan Bookshelf aims to create dialogue and understanding between people. The purpose of the USC Libraries Trojan Bookshelf project is to identify the library as a place for knowledge generation and a safe space where students feel comfortable to discuss matters that affect them.  Students' experiences are valuable. Through and at the library, students discover and acquire information and then use that information, coupled with their lived experience, to create new knowledge.

At the Trojan Bookshelf, Readers will “check out” Trojan Books and engage in open dialogue whose explicit aim is to discuss topics that are often considered delicate, but nevertheless significant, within their lived experiences.  The Trojan Books will have an opportunity to share their experience on topics that can/will include aspects such as their experiences, background, occupation or other personal characteristics.  Readers will be able to ask questions and learn about the Trojan Book’s unique story.  

Also, check out our Additional Reading section to discover more about oral histories, building community, and the specific topics presented by the Trojan Books and represented within the USC Libraries collections.  Supplemental readings will continue to be added to reflect our Trojan Books and provide additional perspectives on their identities.