Equity-Focused Virtual Library Programs: Heart & Hand and Trailblazers

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

Starting in Fall 2021, LA County Library launched two new virtual program series—Heart and Hand Book Talks and Trailblazers in Conversation—in support of Los Angeles County’s Anti-Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion Initiative, instituted by the Board of Supervisors in 2020. Held live on Zoom with recordings posted on YouTube, these talks feature Library Director Skye Patrick and authors and changemakers who are having an impact in LA County and beyond. Heart and Hand hopes to inspire people to open their hearts and minds by challenging existing perceptions about systemic racism and injustice against people of color by featuring discussions on thought-provoking literature with noted authors. Trailblazers in Conversation features politicians, authors, community organizers, and other changemakers who are making a difference in the LA County community. The Library has produced eight events across both series. Topics have included African American leisure sites in California history, cultural awareness through food literacy, celebrating authentic cultural representation in books, destigmatizing illiteracy with social media, everyday activism, LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, and building back equitably after the pandemic. Based on high attendance rates and enthusiastic customer survey responses, the Library is continuing both programs to encourage open conversation in its communities.