Libraries Aren’t Neutral: Programming and Resources for the Political Climate
Thursday, March 22, 2018, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Pennsylvania Convention Center, Ballroom B
What is the library’s role in a world of media bias, extreme partisanship, and fake news? In this election year, libraries are uniquely positioned to take a pro-active role in civic engagement. Explore strategies to move libraries from “neutral” to balanced spaces. Learn about real-life examples of programming, resources, and services geared towards media literacy, political awareness, and facilitating dialogue in the community.
At the end of this session, participants will:
1: Gain knowledge about successes and challenges in public library services on political topics 2: Develop a plan for engaging in a balanced manner on this sensitive topic 3: Understand libraries' evolving role in meeting the needs of their communities
The session organizer(s) identified this session as appropriate for:
Level 2: People with some knowledge, who want to increase their understanding.
This session will have: Medium interaction (example: single speaker/panel with questions or discussion throughout)
Handouts: Download 1 Download 2
Track: Imagine
Tags: Serving Adults, Adult Services, Civic Engagement, Hot Topics, Programming/Services, Public Programs
Presenters
Elizabeth Ludemann, Specialty Info Services Librarian
Arlington Heights Memorial Library , Arlington Heights , IL
Elizabeth is a Specialty Info Services Librarian at Arlington Heights Memorial Library outside Chicago and has worked in public libraries for 7 years. She concentrates on reference, instruction, and informational programming for adults, and her library philosophy is deeply rooted in lifelong learning. Outside the library, you will find her baking, running, or reading.
Mike Monahan, Specialty Info Services Supervisor
Arlington Heights Memorial Library , Arlington Heights , IL
Mike Monahan, Specialty Info Services Supervisor at Arlington Heights Memorial Library, has worked in public libraries for seven years as a reference and programming librarian. He chooses to assume the best in people and enjoys empowering others to take informed action.
Margaret Peebles, Division Chief of Public Services
Gail Borden Public Library District , Elgin , IL
Margaret is the Division Chief of Public Services at Gail Borden Public Library District where she has worked for 20 years. Over her varied career, Margaret has been a Children?s Librarian, Adult Services Librarian, Audiovisual Librarian, Branch Manager, Head of Access Services and now is now happily serving as a Division Chief for Public Services.