Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Novi Public Library
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Visit Lakeshore Lending Library, Michigan's FIRST self-service library kiosk, now open for Novi residents to enjoy at Lakeshore Park! Lakeshore Lending Library holds 235 items, including adult best sellers, large print, biographies, picture books, youth, tween and young adult fiction, and DVDs/Blu-rays. Guests can check out up to 5 items per valid Novi library card using the touch screen on the front of the kiosk. We are thrilled to provide easier accessibility to library materials for residents in the North end of Novi! Click here for more information. |
INTRODUCING RECITE ME, OUR NEW WEBSITE ACCESSIBILITY TOOLBAR
Recite Me is innovative cloud-based software that lets visitors view and use our website in a way that works best for them. We’ve added the Recite Me web accessibility and language toolbar to our website to make it accessible and inclusive for as many people as possible.
It helps one in four people in the US who have a disability, including those with common conditions like sight loss and dyslexia, access our website in the way that suits them best.
It also meets the needs of one in five people in the US who speak a language other than English at home, by translating our web content into over 100 different languages.
Click here for more information.
Highlights in 2021-2022
- Installed cultural art display system for future community showcases in October 2021
- Library Board approved a holiday closure for Juneteenth on December 15, 2021 and Library held first annual Juneteenth celebration on June 18, 2022
- Created Family Resource Kits to help families read books and discuss topics like identity & belonging, immigration & refugees, solidarity & activism, and more, in March 2022
- Improved library accessibility with new NPL @ Your Door, materials-by-mail service, launched March 28, 2022
- Library Board approved the continuation of the Fine-Free Policy through June 2023, on April 28, 2022
- Partnered with Dear Asian Youth Novi for cultural programs & displays in May 2022
- Performed collection audit in 2021-2022
- Highlighted diverse materials in monthly book displays in 2021 - 2022
BOARD Statement (approved May 27, 2021)
The Novi Public Library is committing to ensure that every Novi community member, library guest, Board of Trustee member, library staff and volunteer, are treated with dignity and respect. Discrimination, bigotry and racism with will not be tolerated. The Board and staff are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in order to create a comfortable, safe and supportive library environment for all.
In September 2020, the NPL Board of Trustees unanimously supported the creation of a standing committee for DEI.
Goals (Approved September 24, 2020)
- Monitor our equity footprint for guest involvement
- Monitor our equity footprint in collections
- Monitor our equity footprint for accountability
- To positively and effectively influence outreach and partnerships pertaining to race relations
- Increase staff and community advocacy, awareness and education of DEI initiatives
- Commit to equal opportunity in employment opportunities and upward mobility for all applicants and employees, including those from historically marginalized populations.
If you would like to connect with the DEI Committee and ask questions or express comments, please email DEInovilibrary@novilibrary.org. This email is reviewed by members of the committee, therefore a response back may take up to 48 hours. They appreciate your patience as they work to respond in the best way possible.
The "Colored Section" of Oak Ridge Cemetery
February 21, 2022
Join historian, Kathryn Harris for a look into the history of Oak Ridge Cemetery, the second-most visited cemetery in the United States. Learn about the history of the “colored section” and who is buried there including early settlers, victims of the 1908 race riots, and more untold stories.
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Notable Women in Black History
Harriet Tubman, February 15, 2022
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Jarena Lee, February 17, 2022
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Join Kathryn Harris, historian and retired library services director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in Illinois, in the portrayal of notable women in Black History including American abolitionist Harriet Tubman and Jarena Lee.
MLK Unity Celebration - January 17, 2022
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Mental Health Check-In
November 1, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
October 18, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
This platform seeks to facilitate greater awareness and insight of mental health resources within the community to which members at large may want to connect, to meet any ongoing mental healthcare need for themselves or loved ones.
Understanding Culture
Native American Heritage - September 28, 2021
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Hispanic Heritage - September 14, 2021
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Join us virtually as we recognize and embrace diversity through understanding the influence and contributions of various cultures.
Bilingual Story Times
Novi Library has a list of Bilingual Story Times featuring Japanese, Korean, Tamil and Hindi.
Women Balancing Life One Day at a Time - September 20, 2021
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Women Balancing Life One Day at a Time - August 23, 2021
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Join us for this Mental Health Series as we discuss with the professionals the many challenges women face in balancing work, home, family, friends, relationships, body image, health, self-care, grief, stages and ages, and more.
DIA "Behind the Seen" - In Our Own Voice - African American Art - July 27, 2021
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Enhance your awareness of the contributions of African Americans from the 19th century examining issues of race, gender, politics and culture.
Cultural Connections & Conversation - July 19, 2021
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Join the dialogue, as presenters from various ethnic and racial backgrounds talk about similarities, differences, and acceptance.
DIA "Behind the Seen" - Seeking the Sacred - July 13, 2021
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Compare different ways people throughout the world have used works of art to communicate ideas about religion and spirituality.
Community Listening Session - June 22, 2021
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Novi residents were invited to take part in another conversation session on 6/22 to share thoughts, ideas and experiences as it relates to the NPL and building of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the organization.
Understanding and Recognizing the Significance of Juneteenth - June 19, 2021
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Watch this panel discussion with Mr. Arlanda Walker, Mr. Kevin Scott and Dr. Jay Mark as they talk about the importance of June 19th.
Asian-Indian American Cultural Dialogue - May 18, 2021
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
The Asian-Indian american diaspora in their own way, face a variety of exceptional issues stemming from racial biases, immigration, the impact of India's border closings, loss of professional opportunities, discrimination, equity and social justice issues. View this conversation to learn the unique challenges that Indian American's face.
Asian-American Conversations on Hate, Equality, and Understanding: Part II - May 1, 2021
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Mental Health Discussion: Talking Teen Stress - April 27, 2021
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Many teens have experienced an increased level of stress over the past year. Join them, along with licensed counselors, psychologists, and social workers as they discuss feelings of worry, frustration, and depression.
The Rise in Asian American & Pacific Islander Hate Crimes - April 12, 2021
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Celebrating Women's History Month - March 18, 2021
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Special guests Kathy Crawford and the American Association of University Women (AAUW) talk about the significance of this month while highlighting remarkable women in history
Mental Health Check-In
April 19, 2021
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Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, Board Certified Psychologist, and Dr. Judy Jacobs.
March 8, 2021
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Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, Board Certified Psychologist, and Heather Brown, LPC, ATR-BC
Young Black Doctors: Exploring and Empowering Our Community - February 25, 2021
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Join seven doctors and support their mission as they share their stories about becoming medical doctors! Special guests: Herman Gray, M.D., Carl Tabb II, M.D., Randall McPherson, M.D., Gini Ikwuezunma, M.D., Drs. Jeremy and Jermaine Hogstrom and Chinemelu Donald Okoye, M.D.
See How We Celebrate...Chinese New Year - February 14, 2021
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Special guests: the Michigan New Century Chinese School, the Association of Chinese Americans and the Chinese Bible Church
Black History Month Spotlight Series
February 11, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests: Mrs. Nicole Carter and Dr. Alexander Ofili, Novi Principals
February 18, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guest: Gail Perry-Mason, author, Money Matters for Youth Founder and Senior Director of a Financial Firm
February 22, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests: Michael D. Johnson & Michael J. Johnson, Father/Son Certified Financial Planner/Professional & business owners
MLK Tribute Video - January 18, 2021
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Thanks to the City of Novi, organizations, students, and the community who helped make this video possible. Thanks to Aaron Parrott for the background music.
MLK Virtual UNITY Celebration - January 18, 2021
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Watch to enjoy music, hear guest speakers, and watch presentations on this day of unity and service!
Fraternity & Sorority Read Story Time
December 1, 2020 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
December 8, 2020 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
January 5, 2021- Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
January 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
February 2, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
February 9, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
March 2, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
March 11, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
March 17, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
March 22, 2021 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Stories were selected by NPL and read by members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and AKA Sorority.
Mental Health Series
The Psychological Impact of Racism - December 10, 2020
Watch on YouTube
Learn the different ways in which we carry the burden of racism (anger, depression, anxiety), understand the traumatic effect of racism, gain awareness of internalized racism and learn the A-B-C’s and 1-2-3’s of promoting peace inside and out.
How Are the Kids? - December 17, 2020
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Learn to recognize and address the emotional and mental well-being of our pre-teens and teens during the pandemic. Stress-Isolation-Distracted-Sadness-Quiet. Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, licensed psychologist & Heather Brown, licensed professional counselor.
Supporting Frontline Workers & Educators - January 7, 2021
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Learn coping mechanisms and emotional well-being during the pandemic and more. Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, licensed psychologist & Selena Schmidt, nurse practitioner.
Man Stress - You're Not Alone - January 14, 2021
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Learn how to recognize stress, admit that you have it, what triggers it, and how to get support. Special guests: Dr. Crystal Jackson, licensed psychologist, and Joe Lilly, Licensed Master Social Worker.
African American Ethnic Cultural Discussion Group
December 3, 2020 - Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Join us virtually as we Inform. Inspire. Include. through cultural conversations on customs, common language, holidays and events, inspirations, literature, small talk, history, and resources, designed for specific ethnic cultures.
Novi Public Library International & ELL YouTube
Spring English Language Learning | Watch on YouTube
Vocabulary, read aloud and practice questions about spring for English Language Learners.
Internet Safety English Language Learning | Watch on YouTube
Vocabulary, read aloud and practice questions about internet safety for English Language Learners.
English Conversation Group: COVID-19 | Watch on YouTube
Vocabulary, read aloud and practice questions about the Coronavirus for English Language Learners.
English Conversation Group: Banking | Watch on YouTube
Vocabulary, read aloud and practice questions about banking for English Language Learners.
A Community Listening Session - Aired October 27, 2020
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The Novi Public Library invited the community to share their thoughts and experiences regarding how NPL can improve race relation practices with the Black community. To view the Zoom chat, please click here.
Community Listening Session Reflection - Aired November 9, 2020
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The DEI Committee listened deeply to the comments and questions from the Community Listening Session and invited the community to a reflection and discussion to help the Novi Public Library enact needed change to fully support the Black Community. To view the Zoom chat, please click here.
Talking Racism Series
Combating Racial Injustices - Aired July 7, 2020
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests:
- Hon. Alisha Bell: Chair Wayne County Commission
- Dr. Ken L. Harris, Ph. D (Washington D.C.): President/CEO National Business League
Racism Is Not A “Black People” Issue - Aired July 14, 2020
Watch on Facebook | Watch on YouTube
Special Guests:
- Hon. Cynthia D. Stephens: Judge of the Michigan Court of Appeal, First District
- Mr. Reginald Turner: President Elect, American Bar Association
Teens/Young Adults Talk Racism Views & Experiences - Aired July 16, 2020
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Special Guests:
- Area teens & young adults
Talking With Your Kids About Racism - Aired July 22, 2020
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Special Guests:
- Dr. Rose Moten: Psychologist of BLOOM Transformation Center
- Dr. Katherine G. Gothard: PSY.D
- Mrs. Paula Henry: PAASN President
Why Take A Knee? - Aired July 30, 2020
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Special Guests:
- Hon. Mary Sheffield: Detroit City Council President Pro Tem
- Mr. Mark A. Douglas: Avis Ford, Inc. President
- Mr. James Tate, Detroit City Council
Family Book Discussion Kits
The Novi Public Library's Family Discussion Kits were created to celebrate diverse voices and help facilitate family discussions about racial equity, identity, and justice. Each kit includes discussion questions for recommended books, further recommended reading, activities, and other resources to help parents talk with their children about various topics related to race, identity, and equity. Kits intended for children aged 4-7 and their families are broken down into 4 topics: Identity & Belonging, Immigration & Refugees, Joy & Self-Love, and Solidarity & Activism. Kits intended for children aged 8-11 are broken down into 4 similar topics: Identity & Belonging, Immigration & Refugees, Justice & Systemic Racism, and Solidarity & Activism.
Click here to access the digital version of the Family Discussion Kits!
Physical kits will also occasionally be available in the library at the 1st Floor Information Desk on a first come, first serve basis.
Youth Braille Collection
Did you know that the Library has a Special Needs Collection containing Braille youth fiction, picture books, and board books? The Library also offers several Story Time Backpacks containing Braille books and manipulatives. Click here for more information.
The youth department will be highlighting current events and many of the holidays and observances celebrated in our diverse community.
Safe Space
NPL is a supportive and affirming environment for the LGBTQ+ community and we want you to know that you are included and welcome at our library! Posters have been hung to show that NPL is a safe space for all. Click here for additional information about GLSEN.
International Language Resources
Books: NPL has international materials for both youth and adults. This collection features books in Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), French, German, Gujarati, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Marathi, Portuguese (Brazilian), Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Tamil, and Telugu. These books can be checked out for 3 weeks.
Magazines: NPL currently subscribes to many foreign language magazines and newspapers. Click here to view a complete list.
Films: NPL offers international films in over 40 languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, Spanish, French, German, Hindi, Korean, etc. NPL also has an Anime collection. Anime is a term used to define a style of animation in Japan that is often characterized by stark colorful graphics depicting vibrant characters in action-filled plots often with fantastic or futuristic themes. It is aimed at children and adults.
Click here for additional International Language Resource information.
KultureCity
The Library has recently partnered with KultureCity; a wonderful organization that makes the nevers possible, by creating sensory accessibility and inclusion for those with invisible disabilities. Click here for more information or stop at any of our service desks to inquire.
Lists
African American Youth Biographies
Anti-Defamation League Book Topics - Includes a section titled "Books Matter"
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage - Adults
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Fiction - Teens
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Fiction - Tweens
Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) Pre-K to 4th Grade Reads
Black History Month
Coretta Scott King Book Awards
Culturally Diverse Picture Books
Diverse Adult Fiction
Diverse Book Club Kits
International Books
International Films
International Language Resources
International Magazines
Memoirs from Around the World
YA Fiction by Black Authors
YA LGBTQ+ Fiction
Hoopla Digital Collections
African-American Voices
Audiobooks
eBooks
Conversations on race
Talking to kids about race
Audiobooks
Conversations on Race
YA - eBooks
Adult - eBooks
Comics
Movies
Influential Black Americans
Movies
Own Voices
eBooks
Stories & Experiences
Black Stories & Experiences
Audiobooks
eBooks
Asian Stories & Experiences
eBooks
Audiobooks
Latina & Latino Stories & Experiences
eBooks
Audiobooks
Muslim Stories & Experiences
eBooks
Audiobooks
Native American Stories & Experiences
eBooks
Audiobooks
Hispanic Heritage Month
Audiobooks
LGBTQ+ Voices
eBooks
Audiobooks
Movies
Music
Comics
OverDrive
Let’s Talk about Racism and Anti-Racism
The Novi Public Library is dedicated to highlighting Black-owned businesses in the area. By supporting Black-owned companies, you're helping strengthen local Black economies which in turn, strengthens our community! You'll also contribute to the shrinking racial wealth gap, help foster more job creation for Black people, and so much more.
Minority-owned businesses, especially Black-owned businesses, have also been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. There are many ways to find and support Black-owned businesses.
- Click here to view a growing list of local Black-owned businesses in the area. If you would like to submit a business to be added to this list, click here.
- The Shop Small Movement has a section of their website dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses with resources for both businesses and shoppers, including a map of Black-owned businesses, which you can find here (search New York Magazine Black-owned businesses map).
Anti-Racism resources for white people
Coming Together: Talking to Children About Race and Identity, a Sesame Street Workshop
Little Known Black Librarian Facts
March is Reading Month - Equality's Call Story Time with Jocelyn Benson, Secretary of State
Mental Health Resources
Pioneering Black American Librarians
Novi/Northville Racial Awareness, Accountability and Action Group
Email | Join on Facebook
Novi-Northville Center for Jewish Life
Follow on Facebook | Contact
Novi Parent Mental Health Alliance - Parents in the Novi community
Email
Oakland Schools African American Parent and Child Network
Join on Facebook
PAASN - Parents of African American Students in Novi
Email | Follow on Facebook
Pride & Joy - Parents & guardians of LGBTQ+ kids in Novi
Email | Follow on Facebook
Advocates for Youth - Works alongside thousands of young people here in the U.S. and around the globe as they fight for sexual health, rights, and justice.
American Cancer Society - New report on health issues for African American/Black Women.
Anti-Defamation League - ADL is a leading anti-hate organization that was founded in 1913 in response to an escalating climate of antisemitism and bigotry. Today, ADL is the first call when acts of antisemitism occur and continues to fight all forms of hate. A global leader in exposing extremism, delivering anti-bias education and fighting hate online, ADL’s ultimate goal is a world in which no group or individual suffers from bias, discrimination or hate.
Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA)* - Nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing leadership opportunities through informed dialogue that addresses the needs of Asian/Pacific librarians and those who serve APA communities.
Black Caucus American Library Association (BCALA)* - Serves as an advocate for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services and resources to the nation’s African American community; and provides leadership for the recruitment and professional development of American American librarians.
Gender Diversity - Increases the awareness and understanding of the wide range of gender diversity in children, adolescents, and adults by providing family support, building community, increasing societal awareness, and improving the well-being for people of all gender identities and expressions.
Gender Spectrum - Works to create gender sensitive and inclusive environments for all children and teens.
GLAAD - Tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change.
GLSEN - Works to ensure that LGBTQ students are able to learn and grow in a school environment free from bullying and harassment.
Holocaust Memorial Center - Farmington Hills - The Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman Family Campus has been teaching about the Holocaust and its legacy for more than 30 years, and its building, exhibits and programs have been receiving international accolades and heartfelt thanks from our millions of visitors.
Human Rights Campaign - Envisions a world where every member of the LGBTQ family has the freedom to live their truth without fear, and with equality under the law.
Museum of Jewish Heritage - A Living Memorial to the Holocaust is New York’s contribution to the global responsibility to never forget. The Museum is committed to the crucial mission of educating diverse visitors about Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust.
PFLAG - Builds on a foundation of loving families united with LGBTQ people and allies who support one another, and to educate ourselves and our communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value and affirm LGBTQ people.
Stand with Trans - Provides the tools needed by transgender youth so they will be empowered, supported and validated as they transition to their authentic life.
The Trevor Project - Leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning youth.
Trans Families - Inspires hope, increases understanding, and creates a visible pathway to support trans and gender-diverse children and all those who touch their lives.
TransFamily Support Services - Saves lives by shaping a gender affirming and accepting Community.
Trans Youth Equality Foundation - Provides education, advocacy and support for transgender and gender non-conforming children and youth and their families.
TransYouth Families Allies - Empowers children and families by partnering with educators, service providers and communities, to develop supportive environments in which gender may be expressed and respected.
World Professional Association for Transgender Health (Find a Provider) - Promotes evidence based care, education, research, public policy, and respect in transgender health.
*Novi Public Library now holds memberships with this organization.