According to a report from the White House Council of Economic Advisers, child poverty rates for black and Hispanic youth nationwide are at least three times higher than for white youth. So President Obama launched the “My Brother’s Keeper" initiative to address persistent opportunity gaps facing youth of color – especially boys and young men – and to help all young people reach their full potential. Libraries are a perfect setting to locally launch such an endeavor since they are rightly regarded as both an extension of the education system, as well as an independent space for learning and creativity.

We partnered with Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis to host “My Brother’s Keeper” Festivals at two libraries – one in East Los Angeles and another in La Puente. Both featured programming for three separate age groups. For children ages 0-4, we held a Baby Book Party with a Twinkle Time performance and musical fun. School-age kids were treated to STEM activities and a school supply give-away. Teens enjoyed a spoken word performance. Posters throughout the libraries described the “My Brother’s Keeper” goals and explained how the library supported them. County department representatives supplied information on internship and career opportunities.

Attendance was high with several hundred youth, and many parents, attending our festivals. All enjoyed the programming and were reintroduced to our amenities – key to keeping them engaged with libraries in the future. In doing so, we supported the six milestones of “My Brother’s Keeper” : getting a healthy starting by entering school ready to learn; reading at grade level by third grade; graduating from high school ready for college and career; completing postsecondary education or training; successfully entering the workforce; and keeping kids on track and giving them a second chance. It was a heartwarming experience for all.