Attachment 16_Library MemoTo: Mike Van Milligen, City Manager
From: Susan Henricks, Library Director
Re: Library's Role in the Safe Community Task Force Recommendations
Date: August 6, 2010
Memorandum
The Library plays a key role in the implementation of recommendations from the Safe
Community Task Force; specifically under the recommendation "Neighborhood Engagement
and Social Capital." Under "Human Relations" attention is given to the need for increased
tolerance and mutual understanding among the diverse segments of the population. To achieve
this goal, an increased awareness in the community of diversity in its many iterations must take
place.
To this end, the Library has established a goal of including a component of diversity in 25
percent of its programs (about 175 programs a year). The Library also has a goal to "look like
our community" which will influence everything from hiring new staff to the books that will be
displayed on new shelving featuring titles and covers representing a full range of diversity.
Under item five there is a brief discussion of the Human Rights Department's involvement in
"programs in the arts, cultural programs, and other strategies that promote respect and
understanding among residents." The Library will be an ideal partner in furthering this goal.
As the recommendations of the Safe Community Task Force move forward, please keep in mind
the strong support role the Library can provide. Professional librarians can offer expert
assistance in research and the Library can also host meetings.