Mid-Columbia Libraries’ Statement on Equity
Mid-Columbia Libraries’ (MCL) mission is to empower people, support learning, and strengthen the community; to accomplish this we must address the systemic inequities that prevent people from accessing library services and resources. MCL is committed to integrating the unique strengths and perspectives of our staff and community to drive diversity, equity, and inclusion in all facets of our organization including staffing, services, collections, programs, and physical and digital spaces. We believe that libraries should be places where everyone can thrive. All community members are encouraged and welcomed to be a part of a united voice so we all may continue to learn, grow, and adapt together.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees - November 21, 2023
Urban Libraries Council’s Statement on Race and Social Equity
As leaders of North America’s public libraries, we are committed to achieving racial and social equity by contributing to a more just society in which all community members can realize their full potential. Our libraries can help achieve true and sustained equity through an intentional, systemic and transformative library-community partnership. Our library systems are working to achieve equity in the communities we serve by:
Eliminating racial and social equity barriers in library programs, services, policies and practices
Creating and maintaining an environment of diversity, inclusion and respect both in our library systems and in all aspects of our community role
Ensuring that we are reaching and engaging disenfranchised people in the community and helping them express their voice
Serving as a convener and facilitator of conversations and partnerships to address community challenges
Being forthright on tough issues that are important to our communities
Libraries are trusted, venerable and enduring institutions, central to their communities and an essential participant in the movement for racial and social equity.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees - June 16, 2020