George Floyd’s murder mainstreamed the national discussion on racial injustice. Interest in the history and ongoing impact of structural racism spiked, as did the desire to share personal experiences with colleagues and neighbors, all during a pandemic-mandated Stay-At-Home order. The library sought ways to provide space for difficult conversations among colleagues and neighbors when we were unable to meet face-to-face. It also identified the need for readily-accessible information about racial injustice in the U.S.

Community programs: Dr. Mark Hopson’s three-part series “Reimagining America: Discussions on Race, Justice, & Social Protest” and Dr. Maureen Walker’s “Navigating the Complexities of Race: Racial Healing & Reconciliation” program. Staff opportunities: six race-related conversations during which FCPL staff shared experiences and compassion. Discussions for interested staff of Kendi’s “How to Be an Antiracist” are scheduled for late fall. The “Racial Injustice” LibGuide collocates curated information about structural racism.

All programs were popular. An attendee of the “Reimaging” series said, “I have attended many trainings about culture and race and overall differences and by far this program was most relatable for me as a person. … I felt it was OK to be me and that we are all learning together.” Two hundred ninety-seven people attended “Reimagining” live and the recordings have 617 views. Thirty five people attended “Navigating” live and the recording has 83 views. Over 60 staff participated in the conversations on race and more plan to discuss “How to Be an Antiracist.”