Dear Members,
The Massachusetts Library System noted with dismay the unprecedented attempt at the United States Capitol to prevent the peaceful and democratic transfer of power. This event has served to highlight the ongoing need for the role libraries play in building an informed civic culture, and specifically the importance of information literacy. The Massachusetts Library System condemns this attack on democracy and reaffirms our dedication to the values of truth, diversity, inclusion, equity, access to information, and social justice.
I invite you to attend our MLS Live Session on January 26 at 11AM, where I will be sharing information about our commitment to focus our work on facilitating important discussions and support member-facing initiatives focused DEI work.
We also have some resources that you, your staff, and community may find helpful:
MLS Civic Engagement Leadership Roles for Libraries Resource Page
MLS Building Inclusive Collections Resource Page
MLA’s Tough Topics Resource Page
ALA’s Statement Condemning Violence on Capitol Hill, Calls for Advocacy
PBS-Engaging Students in Civil Discourse
Facing History
Teaching Tolerance
Conversations starters and information about the January 6th events at The US Capitol Building
Boston Knapsack Anti Racism Group Meeting
Project Ready
The MLS team continues to be here for you. Please reach out to us for support and to share resources you have found helpful.
Thanks,
Sarah Sogigian
MLS Executive Director
Stephanie Friree Ford
MLS Executive Board President
