So, Let's Talk: Community Conversations

Last night the Main Library hosted the second of four planned Community Conversations. These programs are funded by Boeing and Humanities Washington, and their goal is to involve citizens in thoughtful conversations about contentious topics. The format is simple: a panel of people with different perspectives and expertise in the topic being discussed gives a presentation, and then they take questions from the audience.

Our first program was on the ballot initiative process, and was a particularly interesting discussion in a year with such a large number of initiatives on the ballot. Last night's program was on immigration. Approximately 20 people attended, and they listened to a constitutional scholar, a UW geography prof, an economist, and a community organizer talk about immigration. It was clear that not everybody in the room agreed on either the problem or the solution, but overall the tone was respectful. People were able to ask questions, receive thoughtful answers (even when they disagreed with what was being said), and then there was a little time at the end for one-on-one questions to the panelists.

While I was dismayed by some of the angry comments posted on the Herald website about the event, those who attended were willing to give the panelists a chance to speak. And to me, that was heartening--and it goes to the heart of what I believe a public library is all about. We build our collections around the idea that we want to provide a variety of viewpoints. We host programs on a variety of subjects. We want people to feel safe asking for the information they need--and not to worry about whether library staff will consider their request unacceptable because of whatever their request says about their politics or interests.

One of the things that makes this country great is that we get to disagree with each other without fear of the consequences. I really believe that as long as we're talking to each other (not just at each other), there is hope we can figure out what we should be doing as a country. And, of course, another great thing is public libraries, the one institution where you can be sure to find your viewpoint in print and on the shelves.

I hope you'll join us in January for another Community Conversation. This one will focus on historic preservation. I'll write more about it in another post.

Help Us Win $10,000

Everett Public Library is a finalist in the Playaway Picture This Contest, which means we have a chance to win $10,000--if enough of you vote for us at http://vote.playaway.com.

Creative staff members got us this far, with an eye-catching display you may have noticed at our Main Library. If you haven't noticed it, or don't know what Playaways are, it's time to check out the display and check out a Playaway. Playaways are MP3 players with an audiobook already loaded. They're about the size of a deck of cards, and are great for listening while exercising, cooking, gardening, or whatever activity goes better with a book.

The contest ends on December 17, and the library with the most votes wins. If we win, we'll use the money for our Summer Reading Program, to help support a community reading program for adults, and more books for our new teen area. Help us get there--with just a click of your mouse.