The Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce that we have contracted with ALA to provide our members with access to their live webinars.  These webinars are free to MLS members who register through our calendar.  Please do not register directly with ALA. Members who register directly with ALA are responsible for paying their registration fee. 

Please help us keep MLS sponsored training free for all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar, please cancel your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation email, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to cancel. 

Description

The Marin County Free Library's Conscious Kids book kits include a small selection of picture books on various topics relating to racial equity and inclusion as well as a tip sheet with some talking points and resources to support deeper learning. Starting early in talking about race and inclusion is the key to disrupting the systems that oppress and exclude. Research shows us that ignoring race actually allows children to form false and often harmful assumptions about others and that honest and age appropriate discussions about racial equity can counteract these assumptions. Diverse picture books are a great way for children to see themselves and others in a joyful way as well as an easy way for caregivers to talk about and celebrate our differences.

By participating in this webinar, you will:

• Understand the importance of talking about race and racial equity with children.
• Learn simple ways to use diverse books to start conversations about equity and inclusion.

Anonymous feedback from the 2024 ALSC National Institute session of this presentation:

• "Such a practical, applicable presentation that can be implemented anywhere."
• "This is so relevant to my community, and I plan on creating kits when I get back! I love the background and context that was provided as well as practical tips for implementation. Very useful, excellent presentation!"

Presenters

Rashida Skaar has worked in libraries for over 10 years. She earned her Master's of Library and Information Science from San Jose State University in 2020 and was named an ALA Spectrum Scholar in 2017. Being able to provide books to children that open up conversations about identity and belonging is an important part of Rashida's current work as a Branch Manager and Education Initiatives Coordinator for the Marin City branch of the Marin County Free Library system. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her equally bookish spouse and two beautiful book-loving daughters.

Clara McFadden is a Collection Development Librarian at the Marin County Free Library. She has worked in Collection Development for youth for over thirteen years. She is passionate about getting good books into the hands of children and teens and relies on her three unpaid interns (aka her kids) to help her find the next best title.

Iris Meinolf, Children's Services Librarian, Marin County Free Library, is a former classroom teacher and early childhood educator turned librarian who is passionate about children's services and racial equity.

Accessibility Information

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.