Mesa Public Library enhances inclusivity and community engagement efforts

In a recent meeting of the Los Alamos County Inclusivity Task Force, library officials outlined their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that serves the diverse needs of the community. The discussion highlighted the library's core beliefs centered around accessibility, representation, and community engagement, emphasizing that everyone is welcome to utilize library services.

The library's adherence to the Library Bill of Rights and the Freedom to Read statement was a focal point of the meeting. These guiding documents affirm that libraries should provide materials reflecting a wide range of viewpoints and should not exclude resources based on the origin or background of their creators. This commitment to inclusivity is evident in the library's collection policies, which aim to represent the lived experiences of all community members.

Library officials detailed various initiatives designed to enhance inclusivity. They emphasized the importance of diverse collections, which include materials from independent and local authors, as well as resources in multiple languages. Staff members actively participate in selecting materials, ensuring a variety of perspectives are represented. The library also aims to create welcoming spaces by incorporating accessible features, such as large print collections and low vision resources, and by offering services like outside lockers for material pickup.

Programming and events at the library are designed to reflect the community's demographics and cultural heritage. The library is committed to offering a diverse lineup of topics and voices, with a focus on local history and representation across age groups. Upcoming initiatives include a needs assessment to gather patron feedback and continued celebration of heritage months through various programs.

In addition to enhancing library collections and programming, officials discussed efforts to improve recruitment and hiring practices to ensure staff diversity. This includes increasing full-time positions, broadening recruitment efforts, and providing comprehensive training for new hires.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing evaluation of library services and marketing strategies to ensure they remain inclusive and accessible. The library's proactive approach aims to create a safe and welcoming environment where all community members can read, learn, and connect without barriers.