The Status is Not Quo
‘We Have A Responsibility To Challenge Racial Inequity’
By Tara Bannon Williamson
Park Hill Librarian


“The Denver Public Library stands committed to promoting racial equity. To be upset about acts of racial violence but think it’s something separate from us, that we’re not responsible, only upholds the status quo. As an organization, we have a role and responsibility to challenge racial inequity in our community.”
The above is a portion of the recent statement from City Librarian Michelle Jeske. (Full commentary is available for all to read at denverlibrary.org/supporting-our-community.)
Actions speak louder than words. How does Jeske’s statement translate to the daily lives of the Denver Public Library staff you know and love?
We are committed to educating ourselves about anti-racism and racial equity efforts and applying what we learn to our profession at large, in our individual communities, and especially reflecting on a deeply personal level. We have made and will continue to make anti-racist resources available to all. We provide opportunities to practice normalizing conversations about race and racism. We provide spaces to be uncomfortable, a necessary pitstop on the adventure to greater empathy.
And we need to still do more. Every day. We need to read Black authors, always – and not just nonfiction about anti-racism. We need to support our Black neighbors, always – not just when social media calls for it. We need to address and fix the fact that the librarian profession suffers from a persistent lack of racial and ethnic diversity and currently shows few signs of improving. We strive to understand and devote effort to stopping the ongoing damage white supremacy is doing to all of us.
Book drops now open
Book drops are now open at both of Greater Park Hill’s libraries, and all other Denver locations with the exception of the following branch libraries:
• Byers Branch Library (closed for renovation)
• Montbello Branch Library (temporarily closed for construction)
• Smiley Branch Library (closed for renovation)
While the book drops are now open, all due dates have been extended to July 20. All materials will be quarantined for three days before they are checked in. We will not be accepting donations at this time.
When you drop off materials, please maintain physical distancing guidelines by keeping six feet of distance between individuals. Please also wear a face covering when using our book drops.
Curbside service – coming July 7
Curbside service for holds placed prior to our closure will begin by appointment beginning on Tuesday, July 7. More information about procedures for pick up will be available leading up to this date. This date is subject to change based on public health considerations.
Gardening Q&A with the masters
New virtual program! Whether you’re brand new to gardening or have gardened for many seasons, let CSU Extension’s Master Gardeners answer your gardening-related questions! Find the link to join us through Google Meet on the library website, or you can call 262-682-0447 and use PIN 973 449 723#. The programs happen every Tuesday at 11 a.m.