Diversity

Thanks to the hard work of its staff, Centennial Park Library in Greeley, Colorado, became the place to be for teens. Recognizing that many of today’s teens have a passion for the hip-hop culture, the library effectively reached community’s teens at-risk of not graduating from high school by celebrating their music and providing educational information and inspiration.

The Library Bill of Rights says, “A person’s right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views.” But the difference between a written goal, even if supported by local libraries, and actual implementation can be vast. Witness libraries located in areas with high percentages of non-English speaking residents. Staff at these libraries know that simply opening your doors is insufficient.