
How We Do and Will Continue to Support Racial and Social Equity
Mission
Ignite Possibilities.
Vision
The Marion Public Library is the spark, lighting the way for imagination, growth, learning, and connection for our community.
Commitments
We welcome all. We strive to remove barriers. We build strong relationships. We encourage curiosity and learning. We listen and respond. We celebrate.
Strategic Initiatives 2018-2021 Specific to Race and Equity
Staff Training and Development
- Annual Training Plan for Library Staff
- Annual City of Marion Staff Training
Remove Barriers to Service
- Fine-Free (Complete - July 1, 2020)
- Identify and address additional equity barriers
Enhanced and Diverse Collection
- Conduct Diversity Audit on Library Collection of Materials
- Implement Collection Development Plans to Address Diversity Gaps in Collection of Materials
Library as a Resource
- Create Community Services Guide/Toolkit
Community Responsive Programming
- ABC: Awareness & Belonging in Community Series
- Programming Gap Analysis
What We Have Accomplished from 2017 to Present (and Ongoing)
Quick Card Implementation
Elimination of Policing in the Library
Mental Health First Aid Training - Youth and Adult
White Privilege Training and Host of Community Book Talk with Dr. Eddie Moore Jr.
Willis Dady Onsite Office Hours
Teen Life Page: marionpubliclibrary.org/teen-life
No Hit Zone Designation
Ryan Dowd Homelessness Training
Restorative Justice Work in Progress
Homelessness Response Team
Partnership with Civil Rights Commission
Leadership Book Circle for City Department Directors (How to Be an Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi)
Sign on to Urban Libraries Council’s Statement on Race and Equity