First up, a quick note to say CONGRATULATIONS on all your work (yes, I’m talking to you) this summer to pull off summer library programming, no matter what shape or what kind of reimagining it took! I have seen and heard so many wonderful success stories. As you wrap up your summer programs and start to gear up for Fall, take a moment to reflect on how far you have come this past year (and a half). I am so proud of how much libraries across Michigan have adapted, and how much care has gone into your work for all in your communities.  Thank you for all you do! #MiLibraries

Collaborative Summer Library Program’s Annual Survey
REMINDER:  Please complete this summer library program survey from the Collaborative Summer Library Program - even if you didn't use "Tails and Tales" this year!

CSLP has created a survey so they can better assess the usefulness of the materials offered by the program on a national level to better serve you, the CSLP membership!  (Did you know?  All Michigan public libraries are members of CSLP, even if your library opts not to use the slogan/artwork/manual, because LM covers your membership fees on a statewide level using IMLS/LSTA funds.)

The survey can be found here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBq6Yof5mW1gGzDeHroUQ7h09MRZ94kEWQQYnytTgXIcmPyA/viewform

Resources

IMLS accepting grant proposals

The Institute of Museum and Library Services is now accepting proposals for the 2022 National Leadership Grants for Libraries and the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian program. The National Leadership Grants for Libraries program supports “projects that address critical needs of the library and archives fields and have the potential to advance practice in these professions to strengthen library and archival services for the American public.”

The Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian program supports “the development of a diverse workforce of librarians and archivists to better meet the information needs of communities being served. Program goals include recruiting, training, developing, and retaining a diverse workforce of library and archives professionals; developing faculty, library, and archives leaders by increasing the institutional capacity of libraries, archives, and of graduate programs related to library and information science; and enhancing the training and professional development of the library and archival workforce to meet the needs of their communities.”

The deadline for the preliminary proposals is September 24, 2021.

A free on-demand informational webinar will be available on the IMLS website.

Fostering an Antiracist Library Culture
September 2021
Details & link to register: https://www.libraryjournal.com/?event=equity-in-action-sept-2021

Library staff at all levels within their organizations have the power—and the responsibility—to help cultivate an antiracist culture, from evaluating spaces, programs, services, and collections to examining policies and practices to reflecting on one’s own implicit biases. Creating an internal culture founded on principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion is essential to building a community-centered library that meets the needs and expectations of its users.

In this course, you will learn about the concrete actions library leaders are taking to make their libraries antiracist today and in the future, and the tools that make it possible. Practical coursework, along with targeted support, will take you from theory to application, helping you to transform your library services to better meet the needs of all your patrons—and attract new ones.

You’ll complete assignments to build your own equity-based initiative over 3+ weeks in an interactive online classroom environment with personal coaching from an expert in the field. In addition, you’ll have access to our foundational bonus content—rich supporting materials you can explore at your own pace, including a series of webinars from Library Journal and School Library Journal contributors,  readings, activities, and videos.

Don’t forget the LM CE Stipend can support your professional development needs: www.Mi.gov/CEstipend

Project READY is a three-year program funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services to create professional development for school librarians and other educators focused on racial equity and culturally sustaining pedagogy. The Project READY curriculum aims to do the following:

• introduce youth services library staff to research in areas such as race and racism, critical theory, and culturally responsive or sustaining pedagogy.
• establish a shared understanding of foundational concepts and issues related to race, racism, and racial equity.
• encourage self-reflection related to race and racial identity for both white and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) library staff in public and school libraries.
• amplify the work of practitioners and scholars who are providing inclusive and culturally responsive services for youth of color and Indigenous youth.
• provide concrete strategies for creating and/or improving library programs and services for Black youth, Indigenous youth, and children and teens of color.

You can access this critical self-reflecting, self-paced course at: https://ready.web.unc.edu/.

In the News…

Libraries Can Guide Families to Early Intervention Services – SLJ, 7.30.21

When teaching children how to write, we must also explain why to write – Chalkbeat, 7.29.21

The pandemic’s toll: National test scores show progress slowed, gaps widened – Chalkbeat, 7.28.21

Students Need To Be In Classrooms, With Masks, This Fall, Education Secretary Says – NPR, 8.2.21

Be sure to take some time to recharge this month,

Cathy Lancaster

Youth Services Coordinator

Library of Michigan
702 W. Kalamazoo St.
Lansing, MI 48915
My Pronouns: She/Her/Hers - See www.mypronouns.org to learn more.

LancasterC5@michigan.gov | 517-335-8129 | www.mi.gov/libraryofmichigan
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