Grace Jackson-Brown, MLS, Ph.D. October 6, 2011

The African American Read-In (AARI) is an exemplary cultural program and reading initiative What is cultural programming? “…programs and series of programs presented by libraries that seek to entertain, enlighten, educate, and involve adult and family audiences, primarily in the disciplines of the arts, humanities, sciences, and public policy or community issues. This type of programming is designed to elicit dialogue, discussion, and consideration of ideas and issues, as well as to further independent study.” (Deborah A. Robertson IN Cultural Programming for Libraries, Chicago: ALA, 2005, p. 3)

Cultural Programming…. Helps “to illuminate the experiences, beliefs, and values that unite us as human beings. They stimulate us to make connections where we noticed none before— between our ancestors and ourselves, between one culture and another, between the community and the individual.” (quote from Susan Brandehoff, editor of the Whole Person Catalog, and found in Cultural Programming for Libraries, p. 2)

Benefits of Cultural Programming in Libraries Provides opportunities for community engagement Draws new and experienced users into the library Introduces users to diverse materials and services in the library Promotes reading and literacy

What is the African American Read-In? The African American Read-In(AARI)is a national event to promote reading and to celebrate black authors that is sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). Originated by the black caucus of the NCTE, the program has also been endorsed by the International Reading Association. Since 1989, over a million readers have joined in the reading celebration.

How to become involved in the AARI?

Involvement in the AARI in Missouri Libraries

Interviews with 2 Missouri academic librarians about their AARI Participation: UMKC – Miller Nichols Library Lincoln University – Inman E. Page Library Ms. Gloria Tibbs, Teaching & Learning Librarian Ms. Lois Marshall, Public Services Coordinator

Missouri Libraries – UMKC Miller Nichols Library & AARI

Missouri Libraries AARI Involvement (continued) Lincoln University, Inman E. Page Library

The five institutional partners of the Springfield African American Read-In Missouri State University Libraries & other MSU Drury University Springfield-Green County Library District Springfield Public Schools NAACP Springfield Chapter

Events of the Springfield African-American Read-IN Young Writers’ Workshop led by Patricia McKissack Storytelling by Gladys Gaines Coggswell Storytime for children & families at Missouri Hotel Booktalks & other activities at branch public libraries February 2010 African American Poetry Reading Performance February 2011 African American Poetry Reading Encore Performance November 2011 Tales of Wonder Storytelling Workshop February 2012 February Storytelling Main Event

Springfield AARIC Pre-Event October 2009 Young Writers’ Workshop featuring award-winning author Patricia McKissack

Springfield AARIC Pre-Event Nov Master Storyteller Gladys Gaines Coggswell

Springfield AARIC Finale Event, February 22, 2010

2011 Springfield AARI Encore Poetry Reading

Future Keys for Success of the African American Read-In Programming in MO Libraries Collaborate with programming partners Have a Project Leader who is in charge of coordination and communication Begin by setting project goals and objectives Have a Steering Committee whose members can each be responsible for key tasks & recruit volunteer helpers Decide early how resources (people, time, money) will be pooled

QUESTIONS?