Facilitated by Lorin Jackson (pronouns: she/them)
Disconnecting from the one-and-done approach to instruction in libraries, reframing critical librarianship as an ongoing, dynamic practice can help us fortify our collective work to make libraries more equitable. Embracing the concept of slow and intentional work challenges the ephemeral, "trending" nature of DEI efforts and shifts our focus to the larger goals of critical librarianship. By defining values and providing examples of successful practices within critical librarianship, we can continue to make more inclusive and intersectional spaces within libraries. Lorin asks that participants read this discussion plan and presentation overview (Google Doc) prior to the event.
Facilitated by Emma Antobam-Ntekudzi and Nicole Williams
It is time to dispel the myth that libraries are race-neutral and inherently safe spaces. Coming to this realization requires a critical examination of the way we are commonly taught to interact with our community, especially during reference services. This talk will review the bias inherent in the reference interview and other reference services. We will discuss how reference practices do not acknowledge their roots in hegemonic white values and promote white mainstream authority and advantage. These current practices unintentionally perpetuate harm to marginalized populations. As solutions, our talk will discuss the principles of a trauma-informed approach and how one can apply this in everyday interactions with students and patrons. Our hope is to inspire librarians to critically examine the reference interview and put into action new ways of providing reference services that are inclusive, sincere and collaborative.
Facilitated by Sofia Leung
This talk will introduce the audience to common tenets of Critical Race Theory, its emergence from legal studies, and its ongoing journey into Library and Information Studies. There will be time for questions at the end.