Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

As Librarians Convene Here, Multnomah County Library Showcases Work In Equity And Inclusion, Kathi Inman Berens

English Faculty Publications and Presentations

As more than 3,300 U.S. librarians flock to Portland for the Public Library Association conference March 23-25, they’ll witness up close Multnomah County Library’s groundbreaking work in diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice. The pandemic, and social justice work after the 2020 protests, have permanently influenced how the library delivers services.

Small And Rural Libraries Have Persevered Amid Challenges, Kathi Inman Berens

English Faculty Publications and Presentations

When the Public Library Association holds its 2022 conference in Portland March 23-25, those overseeing the event will include Stephanie Chase, an association board member and the executive director of the Libraries of Eastern Oregon.

About one-third of libraries in eastern Oregon are staffed with just one person. Still, Chase’s organization, a consortium of 15 rural county libraries, offers access to a bigger collection of materials than people living in the sparsely populated region could previously have dreamed of, including the 66,000 ebooks and audiobooks accessible on a smartphone through OverDrive’s Libby app.

Serving The Entire Community: How The Multnomah County Library Ensures A Welcoming, Safe Space For All, Kathi Inman Berens

English Faculty Publications and Presentations

In the spring of 2020, the Multnomah County Library (Oregon) faced a host of issues impacting libraries across the nation: How to serve the community during a historic pandemic that saw schools and libraries close for an extended period? And how to respond to a racial and social justice awakening that requires systemic change?

Like many libraries across the nation, MCL librarians have been quick to meet their community’s needs. Following the murder of George Floyd by a white police officer in Minneapolis, for example, the library licensed more e-books and digital audiobooks about white supremacy and racial justice and …