Representation Matters at Multnomah County Libraries

This month is Black History Month and Multnomah County libraries are doing their part to educate, engage and inspire. Thirteen libraries — from Kenton to Gresham — will have expertly designed Black History Month displays, including fun Black History Month swag and a helpful Black Resource Book List for readers of all ages. All of this is thanks to the Black Cultural Library Advocates (BCLA). The work of the advocates, which is available at 13 of the county’s libraries, brings additional resources, representation and information to public library exhibitions throughout Portland. Find out more about the library’s Black History Month virtual events, such as Music and Movement with Nikki Brown Clown, on their events page.

“Multnomah County Library’s BCLA staff create programs and services that, from the foundation, are by and for the community,” says Sonja Ervin, Equity and Inclusion Manager for Multnomah County Library. “This gives folks the opportunity to know that the library is a space for them, and this is why the BCLA position is so vital in connecting with the community. The more we represent, the more likely we are able to engage and have folks feel welcome in the space. And the more we connect, share resources and information with communities that have been historically underserved, the closer we get to close the gaps of inequities.”

The following libraries have hired Black Cultural Library Advocates and will have engaging Black History Month displays up this month. Don’t miss them!

North Portland
Gregory Heights
Capitol Hill
Central
St. Johns
Hillsdale
Rockwood
Kenton
Sellwood
Midland
Hollywood
Albina
Gresham

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Tiffany Hill

Tiffany Hill is our Managing Editor. She is from Honolulu, Hawaii, but loves calling Oregon home. She lives in Northeast Portland with her husband, son and their scrappy, adopted dog. When she’s not on assignment, you can find her playing roller derby or exploring the outdoors with a scenic hike.