Will my local public library welcome my suggestions?
Local public libraries are municipal institutions funded by local taxes and mandated to serve the general public’s information needs. So they are tuned in to public inputs about their book collections and programs such as author talks and holiday celebrations. Libraries are evaluated by metrics such as number of visitors, books checked out, and attendees to their programs. The month of May is AAPI Heritage Month. Many libraries would welcome ideas to promote and celebrate this occasion and get more people to use their resources.
How do I reach out to my library about this initiative?
You can start by contacting your library’s front desk or reference desk by email, and ask to speak to the library director. We have put together a template email for your convenience. You can also reach out to your library by phone, or stop by the library in person and ask to speak with librarians in charge of programs or the director. Keep their contact information so you can follow up with them.
You can also reach out to your local Asian American organizations, Asian language schools or other AAPI community groups and approach your librarians and library leadership as a group representing many residents. That can make your advocacy more effective. You can also collect signatures and comments from other residents and present them to the library to support your suggestions.
What exactly am I asking my library to do?
Things that your library can do include:
- Review and update their AAPI themed book collection (Libraries usually have funding to purchase new books.);
- Book displays during AAPI Heritage month, both physically at the library on the shelves and screens, as well as digitally on library channels including website, e-newsletter, Facebook, Twitter and others;
- Host events such as community readings, book discussions and author talks around the AAPI theme; and
- Organize an AAPI Heritage Month cultural fair at the library (this is tricky during the pandemic but worth exploring in the future.)
Read more about AAPI Reads curated booklist, why we need to promote AAPI-themed books, and how to promote the AAPI booklist to your children’s schools.
