Dear Library Community,
This has been a tremendously difficult week for our country and for our community. I am heartbroken by the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis as well as other senseless deaths around our nation, and for the pain that racism has caused and continues to cause in our society.
Contra Costa County Library stands against all forms of racism and hatred. Our mission is to bring people and ideas together. We do this by providing equal access to information and opportunities. Read more about our goals in the Library’s Strategic Plan. As our country works to overcome systemic racism, violence toward Black Americans and inequity, we believe and affirm that libraries are essential partners in that effort.
One of our goals is to build welcoming spaces where all feel safe and included. Even while our physical spaces remain closed, we are working to give you safe and convenient access to resources, via our Virtual Library and soon, Front Door Service. Our virtual programs offer a place to engage with and learn from each other. Our broad collection reflects the diversity of our community. Find our Anti-racist Bookshelf here.
The Library’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Committee’s vision is to make Contra Costa County Library a welcoming place where everyone gets what they need. The Library is one of 165 libraries across the country that has signed the Urban Libraries Council Statement on Race and Social Equity. During this difficult time in our country, we stand by our mission, core values, and with all the communities of Contra Costa County against injustice. We remain committed to creating physical and virtual environments that are radically welcoming to all.
For more information on how libraries in the U.S. are responding to current events, please see the American Library Association’s statement and others using the #LibrariesRespond hashtag.
Melinda S. Cervantes
County Librarian
