Can't see this email? Click here to view this message in browser window.

April 27, 2021

Chat with a Librarian recently got a new logo!  Have you seen it yet?  It represents the three new faces of CWAL: 

• Chat with a Librarian
• Email a Librarian
• Text a Librarian

But we need your help getting the word out!  Several years ago, the Office of Commonwealth Libraries rebranded the service, moving from Ask Here PA to Chat with a Librarian—but quite a few libraries are still using the old name and trying to link to the old service.  Now that we’ve added new services into the lineup, we are asking all libraries in the state to take a look at their websites and update any Chat with a Librarian logos, links, and text to reflect the new logo and updates to the service. 

As more and more patrons turn to virtual reference to help with their information needs, Chat with a Librarian is working hard to assist patrons when they need it, where they need it, and how they need it—and the best way to get the word out is by offering a unified service throughout the state, which includes using the correct name for the service and accurately linking to it!

Libraries that contribute staff to CWAL with any questions about their link should contact HSLC Support. All other institutions should select the 'Get The New CWAL Link and Logo!' link below.

Wednesday May 12, 2021 from 12:00pm-1:00pm
Register for EDI in Action Now!

Looking for ways to add meaningful Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion programming and action to your library?  Join us as we talk with three passionate library professionals from across the state whose programming efforts are championing such topics as multicultural awareness for preschoolers, LGBTQ inclusion for young adults, and documenting the Black American experience in our communities.  

Featured Speakers

Paula Bannon, Head of Children’s Services at Schlow Centre Region Library
Is your library embracing the many cultures represented in your community? World Stories Alive is an example of a program created with the help of community partners that celebrates the many languages found in Schlow Library’s community and introduces families to the vast array of stories found in countries around the world.  Paula will share how this program is welcoming diversity and creating a global community.   

Lee Steube, Young Adult Librarian, Upper Darby Township Library
Is your library a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ community members? EDI work is crucial for nearly every organization, to ensure that marginalized voices are heard, that marginalized community members are valued and included.  Lee will share ideas for creating programming for LGBTQ teens/young adults/adults as well as tips for fostering an inclusive environment.  

M. Rayah Levy, Head of Adult Services, Bethlehem Area Public Library
Is your library documenting and celebrating the narrative of its diverse populations?  Voices from the African Diaspora: The Black Experience of Bethlehem, PA is an oral history project documenting voices that had been silenced or almost lost.  The spark that ignited the idea began when a group of Moravian College students came into the Bethlehem Area Public Library seeking historical information about African Americans living in Bethlehem and little could be found.  This led Rayah on an inspirational journey that started with a humanities grant and ended with a new sense of community.