In the spirit of pursuing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work within LIBRAS, the leadership team and DEI Directors Working Group (Matt, Jo, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Andrew, and Cathy) are excited to share an opportunity for each library to claim a “seat” at Library Journal’s workshop Equity in Action: Fostering an Antiracist Library Culture.
This workshop is designed to support library staff at all levels in the pursuit of cultivating an antiracist culture specifically in the library profession. Those who commit to this opportunity will have the chance to work in a LIBRAS based discussion group to collaborate on assignments and plans while receiving personalized feedback from a group facilitator who is an experienced librarian. Furthermore, LIBRAS members who commit to a “seat” will then share their knowledge and shape DEI professional development opportunities for others in our consortium.
What is expected of workshop participants?
There are two phases to this opportunity…
Phase 1: Workshop
This is a workshop, not a single webinar! The online course features:
- Instructor-led online course features personalized interaction over three weeks
- Real-time guest speakers and conversation via live webcast (with recordings available afterward)
- Self-guided track with video lessons and supporting resources in the online classroom to provide a foundation for your work
- Homework assignments to help you make progress on your goals
- Individualized attention from course facilitators who work with you in a coaching environment to help sort out challenges
- Ongoing group conversation via discussion forums
- Articles, videos, and other resources
- Access to all course content for six months after the course ends
Phase 2: LIBRAS DEI Development
Attendees will advise the LIBRAS Leadership Team and DEI Director’s Working Group on how to cultivate antiracist culture within LIBRAS libraries. Participants extend learning to the broader LIBRAS community by offering local professional development via Zoom and/or on-site when pandemic restrictions are lifted.
Who can apply?
Library staff at all levels within LIBRAS libraries are welcome to apply.
How will applicants be selected?
Applicants must complete this form by 1/13, providing:
- Name
- LIBRAS Institution
- Years of library service years
- Brief statement of why you’re pursuing this opportunity (150 words or less).*
*Note: Anyone may apply, but if your library Director has designated you as a representative for your institution, please note this in your statement.
LIBRAS leadership will review all applications and confirm with selected participants and their directors before submitting names to Library Journal.