March 19, 2024 – 21st Century Information and Libraries Network

Librarian Group Fights Woke ‘Banned Books’ Narrative- The Associations of Library Professionals wants libraries guided by public service, not politics

The issue of book censorship and the freedom to read has become a contentious topic in recent years. The American Library Association (ALA) reports a significant increase in the number of books “targeted for censorship,” leading to concerns about the restriction of access to certain books. However, a group of librarians is fighting back against what they perceive as a woke “banned books” narrative. This blog post will explore the efforts of this librarian group and their mission to restore the neutrality of libraries.

The Rise of Book Challenges:
According to the ALA, book challenges have been on the rise, with a 65% increase in the number of books “targeted for censorship” last year [1]. These challenges often stem from concerns about explicit sexual content or LGBTQ-themed books being accessible to children. However, it is important to note that books that have been “banned” from schools are still widely available in public libraries and bookstores [1]. The issue lies in the ALA’s opposition to restricting access to books based on age, which has led to a debate about the role of parents in determining what is appropriate for their children.

The Formation of the Association of Library Professionals (ALP):
In response to what they perceive as ideological capture and bias in libraries, a group of librarians founded the Association of Library Professionals (ALP) [1]. The ALP aims to guide the library profession back to its traditional duty of impartially offering books and resources to all users while considering the needs and interests of patrons and communities. Their mission includes keeping sexually explicit material out of the hands of minors and partnering with parents, caregivers, and educators to provide well-balanced educational development for young readers [1].

Challenging the Publishing Industry:
The ALP also highlights the issue of books being “strangled in the crib” by a publishing industry reluctant to challenge current woke pieties [1]. This includes instances where white authors writing characters from different racial or ethnic backgrounds are deemed “problematic.” The ALP emphasizes that the lack of willingness to have all stakeholders come to the conversation is a concern and goes against the principles of libraries, which are meant to be for all ideas, not just one or two [1].

Conclusion:
The librarian group, the Association of Library Professionals (ALP), is fighting against the woke “banned books” narrative by advocating for the restoration of neutrality in libraries. They aim to provide books and resources to all users while considering the needs and interests of patrons and communities. By addressing concerns about explicit content and partnering with parents and educators, the ALP seeks to create a balanced and inclusive environment for young readers. Their efforts highlight the importance of open dialogue and the involvement of all stakeholders in shaping library collections.

Digital learning has revolutionized the way we approach education, breaking down geographical barriers and providing access to knowledge for learners of all ages. To recognize the power of digital learning and its impact on education, the International Day for Digital Learning is celebrated on March 19th each year. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing technology in education and ensuring inclusive and sustainable learning environments for all.

The Significance of International Day for Digital Learning:

1. Promoting Inclusivity: Digital learning has the potential to bridge the gap and provide access to education for individuals facing various challenges [2]. It accommodates different learning styles and offers support to students with neurological challenges, ensuring they can stay engaged and learn effectively.

2.Enhancing Learning Outcomes: Technology, when applied properly, can complement and enhance the work of educators, leading to improved learning outcomes [1]. Digital learning tools and platforms offer interactive and personalized learning experiences, catering to individual student needs and promoting active engagement.

3. Fostering Digital Citizenship: International Day for Digital Learning emphasizes the importance of teaching students about digital citizenship and literacy [2]. It encourages responsible and safe navigation of the digital world, equipping learners with the skills needed to thrive in the twenty-first century.

4. Embracing Educational Access: Digital learning transcends geographical barriers and traditional constraints, providing educational access to individuals regardless of their location [2]. This opens doors to learning opportunities for those who may not have access to traditional educational resources.

Celebrating International Day for Digital Learning:

1. Engage in Digital Learning Activities: Take part in online courses, webinars, or virtual workshops that focus on digital learning and its impact on education. These activities provide opportunities to learn from experts in the field and explore innovative teaching methods.

2. Embrace Educational Technology: Explore and utilize educational technology tools and platforms that enhance digital learning experiences. These tools can range from interactive learning apps to virtual reality simulations, offering immersive and engaging educational experiences.

3. Promote Digital Citizenship: Educate students about responsible digital behavior and the importance of online safety. Incorporate lessons and activities that promote good digital citizenship, such as understanding online privacy, combating cyberbullying, and evaluating online sources for credibility.

4. Share Success Stories: Highlight success stories and case studies that demonstrate the positive impact of digital learning in education. Share these stories with colleagues, students, and parents to inspire and encourage further adoption of digital learning practices.

Read more:

Library World Tour-Mario Coffa interviewed David Koech from Kabarak University, Kenya: Open Access, Digital Storytelling, and Technology between Communities and Sustainable Development Goals for Libraries.

In this blog post, we will explore the intersection of open access, digital storytelling, technology, and their role in driving sustainable development goals within library communities, drawing insights from an interview conducted by Mario Coffa and various sources.

We delve into Koech’s journey, his passion for libraries, and his efforts to promote open knowledge and inclusivity.

David Koech, a librarian at Kabarak University in Kenya

In today’s digital age, libraries play a crucial role in promoting sustainable development goals (SDGs) by embracing open access, digital storytelling, and technology. These initiatives empower communities, foster inclusivity, and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations’ SDGs. In this exclusive interview, Mario Coffa the man behind the Library World Tour [1] interviewed David Koech [2], a librarian from Kabarak University in Kenya. Koech is not only a dedicated librarian but also the founder of the Library Matters Initiative Africa-LMI-AFRICA blog. To gain insights into the intersection of open access, digital storytelling, technology, and their impact on communities and SDGs. In this blog post let’s delve into the conversation and discover how libraries can leverage these tools to drive positive change.

1. Background and Introduction to Library Matters Initiative Africa

Mario Coffa begins the interview by asking David Koech about his background and the inspiration behind the Library Matters Initiative Africa-LMI-AFRICA blog [2].
Koech shares his passion for libraries and his belief in the importance of information inclusivity and access as a human right.
He discusses the goals of the Library Matters Initiative Africa, which aims to champion the adoption of open knowledge and improve libraries’ impact on society.

2. The Role of Libraries in Society

Mario Coffa explores the role of libraries in society and how they contribute to the public good [3].
Koech emphasizes that libraries have always been a source of open resources, providing information, learning, research, and leisure-reading opportunities to diverse user communities.
He discusses the evolving concept of openness in knowledge creation, dissemination, and education, and how libraries can adapt to these changes.

3. Open Knowledge and Open Educational Resources [2]

Coffa and Koech delve into the importance of open knowledge and open educational resources (OER) [3].
Koech highlights the significance of open access and licensing in driving quality education and creativity, particularly in the African context.
He shares his advocacy for sustainable development goals, health, security, peace, and education through the use of open knowledge and digital storytelling.

4. Challenges and Opportunities for African Librarians

MarioCoffa asks Koech about the challenges and opportunities faced by African librarians in the 21st century [3].
Koech discusses the widening scope of openness and the need for African librarians to embrace new definitions and integrate them into their processes, systems, and services.
He emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development and the role of partnerships, such as the memorandum of understanding between AfLIA and OER Africa, in empowering African librarians as change agents and leaders.

5. Future Aspirations and Conclusion [2]

Mario Coffa concludes the interview by asking Koech about his future aspirations and vision for the Library Matters Initiative Africa
Koech shares his goals for promoting open knowledge, improving libraries, and making a positive impact on areas such as health, security, and education.
He expresses his commitment to sharing information, championing open knowledge, and advocating for information inclusivity as a fundamental human right.

Conclusion:

Libraries have a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable development goals by embracing open access, digital storytelling, and technology. Through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and capacity building, libraries can empower their communities, bridge the digital divide, and promote inclusive and sustainable development[5].

Sources to Read More:

Learn More AbouT Library World Tour: