Looking for thought-provoking professional development in library and information science (LIS)? Check out the Critical Conversations in LIS webinar series, curated by the Augusta Baker Endowed Chair Dr. Nicole Cooke at the University of South Carolina.

The series features engaging guest speakers exploring critical issues in LIS, including topics connected to Dr. Cooke’s courses Critical Cultural Information Studies and Disinformation and the Literacy Landscape. These free, online conversations are open to the broader LIS community and focus on timely, challenging, and action-oriented topics.

Sessions are held via Zoom on Thursday afternoons at 12 p.m. or 4 p.m. EDT and are recorded for later viewing.

Register for upcoming sessions on the event webpage.

Congratulations to members Innocent Awasom and Jessica Jackson on their selection to the 2026 TALL Texans Leadership Development Institute! 

TALL Texans is one of the Texas Library Association’s premier leadership programs, bringing together library professionals from across the state to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their networks, and prepare for greater impact in their libraries and communities.

We are proud to see BCRT represented by these outstanding leaders and look forward to all they will accomplish through this transformative experience. Please join us in celebrating their achievement! 

For more information about the Class of 2026, visit this year’s announcement.

BCRT is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Ashley Bryan Award.

Established in 2023, the honors excellence in children’s literature by Black authors. In odd-numbered years, the award recognizes an author for their distinguished body of work; whereas, in even-numbered years, it celebrates an emerging Black author’s debut work. The award acknowledges contributions that center humanity, diversity, culture, and community in children’s literature.

The recipient is selected based on their outstanding literary contributions that uplift people of color, foster community, and expand opportunities to see our shared humanity reflected in literature. The award includes a $1,000 honorarium and a commemorative plaque.

The 2027 Ashley Bryan Award will recognize a Black author for their body of work and be presented at the TLA 2027 Annual Conference in San Antonio.

BCRT invites current members to submit one nomination for an outstanding author who has published at least seven books within the past ten years. Each nomination must include a brief justification.

Nomination Period: March 29 – June 30, 2026

For additional details and submission guidelines, please visit the award webpage. 

BCRT celebrates Star Wars Day by honoring the power of storytelling, imagination, and—most importantly—representation across galaxies near and far.

“Representation is about demanding that we’re all seen and affirming that we all matter.” —WeHaveStories.org

From rebels to leaders, every story matters. Let’s continue to uplift voices that ensure everyone can see themselves as the hero.

Looking for Star Wars reads with Black representation to connect with your community? Then, check out this curated list of titles.

We’re excited to expand our online presence and create more ways to connect, share resources, highlight important work, and keep you updated on events and initiatives.

Join us on Facebook to stay informed and be part of the conversation. Let’s continue building community together—both online and beyond.

We’re back! After a summer of exploration and making memories, BCRT is excited to welcome members back for our first bi-monthly meeting where we’ll delve into what happens when travel, storytelling, curiosity, and librarianship come together. 

Join BCRT for an inspiring conversation with Yasmeen Youngblood, our August meeting guest speaker! Yasmeen will present “The World Is My Library: Using Travel, Story, and Curiosity to Inspire the Next Generation,” exploring her nonprofit travel endeavors and the ways those experiences intersect with librarianship and learning.

Come ready to be inspired, broaden your perspective, and consider how we can help the communities we serve see the world as their library.

We’re excited to reconnect after the summer break and hope to see you there

• 🗓️Thursday, August 20, 2026

• 🕡6:30 PM

• 🎤Guest Speaker: Yasmeen Youngblood

• 🔗The meeting link will be shared through the BCRT TLA Engage community.

Attendees will also be eligible to receive continuing education (CE) credit for participating.  

BCRT is proud to spotlight Jessica Jackson, Program Manager of Library Services for Aldine ISD. Jessica advances diverse collections and equitable access across her district while championing community-centered mentorship and support. Today, we celebrate Jessica for her dedication to representation, mentorship, and creating meaningful opportunities for young people to see themselves, their potential, and their possibilities reflected in the world around them.

Enjoy Jessica’s full interview below to learn more about her passion for diverse literature, mentorship, community support, and the meaningful impact she continues to make through her work in libraries and beyond.

Tell us about a recent celebration, accomplishment, or project you’re proud of.

A project I’m proud of is my work with TWST4Girls (Together We Stand Tall), a nonprofit that supports young girls from underserved communities through mentorship, life-skills development, leadership training, and career exposure. As Programs Committee Chair, I help plan and run that programming directly—it’s not a peripheral role. What’s stayed with me is watching specific girls grow over the course of a program: coming in hesitant about speaking up or setting goals and leaving with a clearer sense of what they’re capable of. That’s the part that keeps me involved—not an abstract belief in mentorship, but seeing it work in front of me. It’s also shaped how I think about my own work; community-driven, hands-on support can do more than good intentions alone.  

How are you making an impact in the library world or your community, particularly in advancing diversity, equity, and representation for Black voices?

As Program Manager of Library Services for Aldine ISD and a longtime volunteer with TWST4Girls, most of my work on this comes down to two things: what’s on the shelf and who gets access to it.

Collections and Access: Across our district library network, I advocate for diverse literature and make sure the digital platforms we use—Sora, TexQuest, Follett Destiny—actually reflect that, so Black authors and stories are part of the regular rotation, not a February-only display. I’ve also standardized the evaluation rubrics and collection standards our Information Literacy Specialists use, so every campus librarian has a concrete way to audit their own shelves and identify where the gaps are, rather than relying on guesswork. 

Mentorship Through TWST4Girls: As Programs Committee Chair, I plan life-skills, financial literacy, and career-development programming for young Black women and other underserved youth. That work has included higher-education and STEM exposure trips, as well as workshops on digital literacy, online safety, and design tools like Canva and Gamma—the kind of practical skills I want them walking into college or a career already comfortable using. 

Community Support: We’ve also organized professional clothing drives for young women entering the workforce and digital-access workshops, so the support doesn’t stop at the classroom door. And having started out as a middle school librarian before moving into district leadership, I retain that perspective and advocate for funding, updated resources, and programming that actually serves our student population—not just policies that sound good on paper. 

The throughline for me is pretty simple: representation on the shelf matters, but it only goes so far without the mentorship and access that help kids actually picture themselves in those stories.

Share a fun fact about yourself!

I am passionate about dance—especially praise dancing, line dancing, DFW Swingout, and Houston 2-Step. 

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

BCRT is pleased to spotlight Sarah Anderson, a library and community advocate working at the intersection of culture, wellness, and access in the nonprofit sector. As Oldways’ Heritage Curriculum Partnership Manager, Sarah helps connect libraries and community organizations with culturally relevant nutrition education, including programs that celebrate African Heritage foodways and Black food traditions. In this spotlight, Sarah shares how her work is helping make health education more inclusive and accessible, along with a few of the creative pursuits that keep her inspired. Today, we celebrate Sarah for her dedication to expanding access to culturally relevant education, honoring Black food traditions, and creating healthier, more inclusive communities.

Enjoy Sarah’s full interview below to learn more about her passion for culturally relevant nutrition education, food traditions, and community wellness, and the meaningful impact she continues to make through her work with libraries and community organizations.

Tell us about a recent celebration, accomplishment, or project you’re proud of.

One recent accomplishment I’m especially proud of is helping expand access to Oldways’ Heritage Diets programs in my role as Oldways Heritage Curriculum Partnership Manager. As of April 2026, Oldways made our digital Heritage Diets curricula free, removing a major cost barrier for libraries, educators, nonprofits, and community organizations seeking culturally relevant nutrition education. 

How are you making an impact in the library world or your community, particularly in advancing diversity, equity, and representation for Black voices?

I work with libraries and community organizations to bring culturally relevant nutrition education to communities. Through Oldways’ African Heritage & Health programming, I help elevate Black food traditions and African Heritage foodways as sources of health, knowledge, and cultural pride. I’m especially proud to support libraries in creating inclusive programs that center Black voices and make health education more accessible and representative.

Share a fun fact about yourself!

I teach yoga classes and make jewelry. I love having creative outlets that let me bring together wellness, community, and art.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

BCRT is proud to spotlight Innocent Awasom, a STEM Reference Librarian at Texas Tech University Libraries. Driven by a passion for research, mentorship, and community engagement, Innocent has dedicated more than two decades to supporting student and faculty success while advancing diversity, equity, and representation within librarianship and higher education. Through their work as a STEM librarian, international educator, and scholar, they have fostered meaningful collaborations across the United States, Zimbabwe, and Cameroon, resulting in impactful research, publications, and lasting professional partnerships. Today, we celebrate Innocent for their global leadership, dedication to scholarship and service, and steadfast commitment to expanding opportunity, fostering inclusion, and mentoring the next generation of researchers, librarians, and community leaders. 

Enjoy Innocent’s full interview below to learn more about their professional journey, dedication to scholarship and service, and the meaningful impact they continue to make in their community and around the world.

Tell us about a recent celebration, accomplishment, or project you’re proud of.

I was on a Fulbright sabbatical at the Bindura University of Science Education in Zimbabwe, and it was a wonderful experience that allowed me to participate in teaching, research, and outreach activities with local and national scholarly communities in Zimbabwe and Cameroon. This work led to a number of conference presentations, four articles in peer-reviewed journals, two book chapters, as well as ongoing research collaborations and lasting friendships.

Building on these experiences, being selected for the next cohort of the TALL Texans Leadership Institute is another exciting milestone in my career. I have often led from behind the scenes, and I now look forward to becoming more involved in leadership roles and contributing in new ways.

How are you making an impact in the library world or your community, particularly in advancing diversity, equity, and representation for Black voices?

As a STEM librarian for more than two decades, I have remained excited about supporting new research projects and seeing the innovative work that students and faculty pursue. Organizing orientation programs for international students and scholars is also a rewarding part of each semester. In addition, outreach to under-resourced schools in our communities and literacy initiatives that engage Black communities are important ways I seek to make a meaningful impact.

Both locally and internationally, I have been involved in training programs focused on the recruitment and retention of librarians of color. Over the past decade, I have also raised funds to support graduate STEM students—particularly female students in Zimbabwe and Cameroon—in attending scholarly conferences, giving them exposure to research careers and opportunities to build professional networks. Through these efforts, I hope to contribute to greater diversity, equity, representation, and access within both the library profession and the broader academic community.

Share a fun fact about yourself!
I have visited 7 countries in Europe, 7 countries in Africa, and 29 states in the USA. 

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

BCRT is proud to spotlight Jasmine Washington, a Children’s Librarian at Harris County Public Library. Driven by a passion for literacy and a lifelong love of reading, Jasmine creates engaging youth programs that inspire young minds, foster learning, and strengthen community connections. Through innovative summer reading initiatives, dynamic special events, and meaningful partnerships with local schools and child care agencies, she has helped establish the library as a trusted educational resource for children and families. Her commitment to inclusive programming, expertise in youth literature and emerging library trends, and thoughtful use of digital outreach ensure that library services remain accessible, relevant, and responsive to the needs of the community. Today, we celebrate Jasmine for her outstanding leadership, dedication to service, and unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation.

Enjoy Jasmine’s full interview below to learn more about her passion for youth development, literacy, and community engagement, and the meaningful impact she continues to make in the lives of children and families.

Tell us about a recent celebration, accomplishment, or project you’re proud of.

I am proud of the Juneteenth celebration we hosted last month. Titled FREEDOM FOR ALL, the event featured crafts, games, food and drinks, music, giveaways, and a trivia scavenger hunt. It was wonderful to partner with Lemonade Retreat, a Black woman-owned business, which provided beverages that were a huge hit with attendees. The community enjoyed coming together, having fun, and learning about the significance of Juneteenth. Highlights included meeting a patron who was attending their very first Juneteenth celebration, hearing a child declare that the cornbread I baked was the best bread they had ever tasted, and connecting with a patron who had recently moved from Chicago and was looking for a local event to commemorate the holiday. It was inspiring to see the community come together to celebrate the freedom, history, and resilience of Black Texans. 

How are you making an impact in the library world or your community, particularly in advancing diversity, equity, and representation for Black voices?

I believe that being a Black librarian is, in itself, making an impact in the library world. There is still a relatively small percentage of Black librarians within the profession, and we are helping to reshape perceptions of who librarians are and what they look like. It is especially rewarding to hear caregivers share that their little ones associate the library with you. I am always striving to uplift the voices of our community through book displays and social media, highlighting and celebrating Black stories during Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Juneteenth, and throughout the year. I also make a point to incorporate books by Black authors and stories featuring Black characters into my storytime programs. 

Share a fun fact about yourself!

I have never traveled out of the country but am hoping to change that within the next couple of years. 

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

BCRT is proud to spotlight Yasmeen Harris-Youngblood, a dedicated educator and 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee Educator of the Year, whose 14-year commitment to student success has transformed her campus into a culture of confidence, courage, and perseverance. Through her intentional work with students, she creates opportunities for young people to step into the spotlight, be seen and celebrated, and recognize their intelligence as a source of power. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, uplifting the broader community and reinforcing the belief that every child’s potential deserves to be nurtured and recognized. As a BCRT member, she brings this honor back to Texas, affirming that greatness is always within reach.

Enjoy Yasmeen’s full interview below to learn more about her inspiring journey, her impact on students, and her commitment to building a culture where every child is seen, celebrated, and empowered.

Tell us about a recent celebration, accomplishment, or project you’re proud of.

A recent milestone I am incredibly proud of is receiving the Scripps National Spelling Bee Teacher of the Year award. Beyond the trophy, the true accomplishment has been the 14 year journey with my students. Year after year, I watched them gain the confidence to stand on a stage in front of their peers and families and take risks that gave them courage and grit. Through the Spelling Bee culture that I created on my campus, they were able to showcase their hard work and perseverance. This does something powerful for children. It shows them that they are capable and worthy of being seen and celebrated. As a member of the BCRT, I am especially proud to bring this honor back to Texas to show our community that our students’ intelligence is a source of power and that greatness is always within their reach.

How are you making an impact in the library world or your community, particularly in advancing diversity, equity, and representation for Black voices?

My mission is to ensure that every student on our diverse campus feels seen, heard, and celebrated. I achieve this through a curriculum that I created called ‘Story Trails’. These are literacy journeys that coincide with cultural heritage celebrations throughout the year. By highlighting authors of color and stories from around the world at the center of these ‘trails’, I am advancing representation in a way that is accessible and community-oriented. I believe that when we celebrate our specific heritages, we strengthen our entire community. These trails serve as a constant reminder to my students that their stories are worthy of being told, shared, and celebrated.

Share a fun fact about yourself!

Outside of the library, I have a social media platform called ‘The Trekking Teacher’. I am an avid mountain climber who believes that every peak has a story worth sharing. My global expeditions have taken me to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, through the Andes in Peru, across the Alps (France, Italy, and Switzerland), and into the Lost City in Colombia. Whether I’m trekking across Iceland or walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain, I am always collecting stories and perspectives to share with my students, proving that Black women belong in these outdoor spaces and that there are no limits to where our curiosity (and our feet) can take us!

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

Come for the mixer…Stay for the community!

Join the Black Caucus Round Table for a fun evening that brings together ALL library workers across ALL library types. This is a space to connect, laugh, share stories, and build community. So, come along for networking, fun, and prizes!

• January 13, 2026

• 6:30 PM

• Register via this online form by January 12th

Not a member of BCRT yet? We can help with that. Click the button below for more details. 

***

Join BCRT by selecting the round table during the TLA membership registration process—one round table is included with basic dues. For additional information, visit the Join TLA page.

Support the important work of the Black Caucus Round Table! Your donation helps uplift programs, resources, and initiatives that make a difference in libraries and communities. Contribute today! 

For more information, visit our donation page. 

Follow us at @bcrtxla for updates, events, highlights, library love, and Black excellence in librarianship. Join the conversation and stay connected with our community!

#BCRTxLA

BCRT extends our deepest gratitude to  Karyn Parsons  and 2026 Ashley Bryan Award Recipient Keenan Jones for joining us as distinguished special guests at our signature programs during the 2026 Texas Library Association Annual Conference.

Ms. Parsons, your remarkable ability to illuminate untold histories through storytelling and your steadfast commitment to inspiring young readers and communities made your presence truly extraordinary. From your celebrated work as an actor to your meaningful contributions as an author and founder of Sweet Blackberry, your voice brought depth, reflection, and inspiration to our author brunch.

Mr. Jones, your compelling presence, dynamic storytelling, and engaging spirit brought energy and connection to the reception in a way that resonated deeply with all who attended. Your words and artistry left a lasting impression and reminded us of the power of stories to build community and spark meaningful conversation.

Thank you both for sharing your time, your insight, and your creativity with us. Your contributions made our signature programs truly memorable and deeply meaningful.

***

BCRT's annual Author Brunch is a signature event held during Annual Conference, bringing together librarians, authors, and literary advocates to celebrate Black literature and storytelling. The program features a distinguished guest author who shares insights into their work and creative journey, while also honoring the Ashley Bryan Award winner for outstanding contributions to children’s literature that highlight themes of culture, humanity, diversity, and community. Together, these elements create a meaningful space for recognition, inspiration, and connection within the library field.

Stop by our booth, #1636, at Annual Conference for a vibrant hub of connection, creativity, and celebration. Meet and engage with featured authors as they share insights into their latest projects, discover opportunities to connect with fellow members, and learn more about upcoming events—including this year’s reception. Plus, don’t miss your chance to snag exciting book giveaways! Booth #1636 is your destination to connect, collaborate, and celebrate Black excellence in Texas Library Land.

Please find below details about our author line up and how to stay connected.

Celebrate community and connection at the BCRT Reception during the Texas Library Association Annual Conference! Join colleagues and friends for an evening of networking, conversation, and fellowship. All conference attendees are welcome to stop by, connect with members of BCRT, and enjoy this opportunity to build relationships with library professionals from across Texas.

• Monday, March 30, 2026

• 6:00–7:30 PM Central

• Avenida Balcony, GRB Level 2

Join BCRT for its business meeting during Annual Conference to hear updates on current activities, discuss upcoming priorities, and learn ways to get involved in supporting and advancing the work!

• Monday, March 30, 2026

• 3:00–4:00 PM Central

• Room 380B, GRB Level 3

Congratulations

Kenya Johnson and Kenyetta Mathis

Each year, BCRT supports professionals, paraprofessionals, and students of African descent in attending the Texas Library Association Annual Conference through stipends to offset the expense.

To qualify, applicants must be:

• A Black professional, paraprofessional, or student in the library science field

• Currently or formerly employed by a Texas library, or currently enrolled in a Texas Library Science program

• A current registered member of the Texas Library Association

• An active member of the Black Caucus Round Table

For more information, visit our stipend webpage.

The Black Caucus Round Table is excited to welcome actor and author Karyn Parsons as the featured guest for this year’s Author Brunch at the Texas Library Association 2026 Annual Conference in Houston. Parsons is widely known for her iconic role as Hilary Banks on NBC’s The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and she has since built an impressive literary career focused on uplifting stories and overlooked histories. She is the founder of Sweet Blackberry, an award-winning series of animated films and books that spotlight unsung Black heroes, with projects enjoyed by schools and libraries nationwide and featured on HBO and Netflix. Parsons is also the author of the middle-grade novels How High the Moon and Clouds Over California, several acclaimed picture books, and the forthcoming YA novel Blue Beach which is scheduled for release in summer 2026. This special brunch offers attendees the chance to celebrate her work and hear firsthand about her creative journey.

Join us on Monday, March 30, from 10:00–11:30 a.m. to be inspired by Karyn Parsons and to help celebrate this year’s Ashley Bryan Award winner. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, reflect, and honor excellence in literature. To secure your seat, visit the Ticket Events page.

The Texas Library Association Black Caucus Round Table (BCRT) is excited to announce the 2026 winner of the Ashley Bryan Award, Keenan Jones. Jones is an author and educator based in Plymouth, Minnesota. Keenan worked as an elementary school teacher and is the founder of the educational nonprofit Literacy for Freedom. Saturday Morning at the ’Shop is his debut picture book. Learn more at KeenanJWrites.com. 

The Ashley Bryan Award honors an established Black author for their body of work and a Black author’s debut work in alternating years. The award recognizes an author’s contribution to highlighting and promoting humanity, diversity, culture, and community in children’s literature.

This award will be presented at the Texas Library Association  2026 Annual Conference in Houston in March.

For details about this honor, visit our award page.

***

Download this Ashley Bryan Award Winner Announcement and share the good news in your library to help celebrate this year’s honoree.

We are excited to offer 2 professional development stipends at $500 each to cover full conference registration and defray some of your travel expenses. To qualify, you must be:

• A Black professional, paraprofessional, or student in the library science field

• Currently or formerly employed by a Texas library, or currently enrolled as a student in a Texas Library Science program.

• Registered as a 2026 member of the Texas Library Association and the Black Caucus Round Table

Recipients will work together to give a presentation at a BCRT meeting discussing their takeaways from the 2026 TLA Conference. Moreover, recipients are strongly encouraged to attend BCRT meetings, events, and activities throughout the following year.

Application Deadline:

Monday, December 15, 2025 | 11:59 PM Central

For more information, visit the stipend webpage. 

BCRT warmly invites members and supporters to join us for our February 2026 General Meeting and Learning Session. Chair LaTrisha Milton will welcome representatives from Hoopla for an engaging conversation about new platform features and thoughtfully curated Black History Month resources designed to support library communities.

This session offers a great opportunity to learn, connect, and discover tools you can put into practice right away. Attendees will also be eligible to receive continuing education (CE) credit for participating. We hope you’ll join us!

• Tuesday, February  17, 2026 at 6:30 PM (CT)/5:30 PM (MT)

• Meeting Link

• Meeting ID: 857 0225 2196

• Passcode: 433763

How do we hold onto joy in the work we do—and help others find it too? Join us for an open, member-driven conversation on sustaining Library Joy. We will set the stage, but the heart of this session will be your voices, experiences, and ideas. Together, we’ll explore what joy looks like in our libraries, how to nurture it amid challenges, and how to keep our passion for service thriving.

Come ready to share, listen, and leave refreshed with new inspiration for your library journey.

• Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 6:30 PM (CT)/5:30 PM (MT)

• Meeting Link

• Meeting ID: 868 7705 2458

• Passcode: 479362

Join us in August for Legislation & Libraries: What Texas Librarians Need to Know featuring special guest Wendy Woodland, TLA’s Director of Advocacy & Communications! Wendy will break down recent legislative developments that directly impact the library profession in Texas. Don’t miss this timely and important conversation—empower yourself with the knowledge to advocate effectively for your library and community.

• Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 6:30 PM (CT)/5:30 PM (MT)

• Meeting Link

• Meeting ID: 818 7192 6103

• Passcode: 455651

Join us for a powerful conversation on The State of Black Librarianship: The Past, Present, and Future – A BCRT Perspective. Hear from Dr. Janice Newsum, Roosevelt Weeks, and Kimberly Gay – three former BCRT chairs – as they reflect on the legacy, challenges, and future of Black librarianship. Don’t miss this important virtual session. Save the date and be part of the dialogue that shapes our profession!

• Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at 6:30 PM (CT)/5:30 PM (MT)

• Meeting Link

• ID: 844 6514 1587

• Passcode: 876910

BCRT is proud to spotlight Christina E. Taylor, a dedicated librarian, advocate, and champion for graphic literature and community-centered library service. Taylor’s work sits at the dynamic intersection of fandom, literacy, and inclusive library practice, where she uplifts readers and library workers who may not always see themselves reflected in traditional spaces. Through her programming, partnerships, and mentorship, she continues to cultivate welcoming environments that celebrate diverse stories and the people who love them.

For the second time, Taylor will facilitate the “Get Graphic” track at the North Texas Teen Book Festival (NTTBF). Founded in 2012, with its inaugural event held in spring 2015, NTTBF is a free, two-day festival featuring a professional development day for educators followed by a teen book festival with dedicated programming for middle grade readers. The festival connects its reading community by adding dimension to the reading experience and stands as a strong model of collaboration across special, public, school, and academic library environments—values that closely align with Taylor’s own professional commitments.

Reflecting on her work and visibility in the field, Taylor shares: “Being a female comics librarian of color is analogous to being a koi swimming in an evaporating puddle of water. However, other blerds DO exist. And, we need to know in certainty that we’re not swimming alone. There’s an entire school of us and having their company makes our puddle feel a bit less isolating. By being active and highly visible at the intersection of the fandom and Library Land, I’m able to hold space and create felt safety for those in need of community that looks like them.” Through this work, Christina E. Taylor continues to embody BCRT’s mission to support, connect, and celebrate Black library professionals across Texas and beyond.

For more information about Christina’s professional endeavors, follow her on LinkedIN.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

The Black Caucus Round Table proudly celebrates Meridith Derrick, BCRT’s Alternate Councilor. As Program Coordinator of Libraries for Klein Inependent School District, Meredith champions equitable access to diverse resources and supports librarians in creating inclusive, welcoming learning spaces. Her leadership in the Texas Association of School Librarians and the Black Caucus Roundtable reflects her deep commitment to representation, mentorship, and uplifting Black voices within education.

Meredith is a dedicated library leader whose work is expanding access, equity, and joy across Texas schools. One accomplishment that she’s particularly proud of is her launch of the Book Bundle Summer Reading Program for students at Klein ISD’s Title I campuses this year—an initiative powered by the TLA-HEB Summer Reading Grant. By providing free, high-interest books, Meredith is helping prevent the summer slide and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to discover stories that spark curiosity and nurture a lifelong love of reading.

Through her vision and advocacy, Meredith is fostering library programs where all students feel seen, valued, and inspired to explore a world rich in stories that celebrate diversity and belonging.

For more information about Meredith’s professional endeavors, follow her on LinkedIn.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

The Black Caucus Round Table proudly celebrates Brandi Grant, BCRT’s Councilor. Brandi is a vibrant educator and librarian whose passion for innovation is shaping the future of Texas libraries. When her district introduced AI tools for students, Brandi seized the opportunity to teach not just what AI is, but how to use it responsibly and creatively to build knowledge. Her forward-thinking lessons sparked meaningful conversations on ethical AI use and even inspired a district-wide dialogue when she presented her approach to all Frisco ISD principals.

Beyond the classroom, Brandi’s leadership shines through her service as co-chair of the 2026 TLA Conference Planning Committee, where she is helping design a conference that empowers, inspires, and amplifies diverse voices across the library profession.

Originally from Pomona, California, and now thriving in Texas, Brandi describes herself as “a city girl in a country world,” blending both perspectives to bring joy, authenticity, and vision to everything she does. 

For more information about Brandi’s professional endeavors, follow her on Instagram.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

BCRT proudly announces that Kimberly M. Gay, Head of Reference and Information Services and Academic Reference & Instruction Librarian II at the John B. Coleman Library at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), presented at the 2025 Hawai‘i Library Association (HLA) Annual Conference—becoming the first HBCU academic librarian to present at the HLA Conference. Her presentation, Woven Together: Academic, School, Public and Specialty Libraries and Librarians Cultivating Community, Culture, and Collaboration through Experiential Learning from STEM to STEAgM—Infusing Agriculture and Foodscaping to Foster Interdisciplinary Partnership, highlighted libraries as powerful hubs for research, interdisciplinary teaching, innovation, and community connection. While in Hawai‘i, Ms. Gay was also led on guided tours focused on the island’s agricultural landscape, including visits to the original DOLE Pineapple Plantation, coffee and macadamia farms, and multiple Hawai‘i library systems—experiences that reinforced connections to PVAMU’s own farming and ranching initiatives.

An accomplished library leader with more than 20 years of experience, Ms. Gay supervises a dynamic team of librarians and student assistants and has long supported PVAMU’s College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) and the School of Public and Allied Health. A ninth-generation Texas USDA farmer and nationally recognized leader, she serves in executive and leadership roles with the United States Agricultural Information Network (USAIN), Texas Library Association (TLA), American Library Association (ALA), and Beta Phi Mu. Her work uniquely integrates agriculture, STEAgM education, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and food sustainability to bridge academic, rural, and urban communities. Please join us in congratulating Kimberly M. Gay on this historic achievement and her continued leadership in advancing librarianship, experiential learning, and community impact at PVAMU and beyond.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

The Black Caucus Round Table proudly celebrates Muriel St. Julian, BCRT’s dynamic social media manager. In 2022, Muriel launched the organization’s first-ever social media presence, creating a vibrant space that highlights members’ achievements, promotes professional development opportunities, and celebrates Black excellence in librarianship. Her work has fostered meaningful engagement and amplified the voices of Black library professionals across Texas—helping the BCRT community shine brighter than ever! 

For more information about Muriel’s professional endeavors, follow her on Instagram.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

BCRT proudly recognizes member LaTrisha Milton for her inspiring leadership at Houston Public Library. LaTrisha spearheaded the Big Feelings program, a powerful initiative supporting families in nurturing mental health and wellness. Thanks to her vision and dedication, the program saw an incredible 471% increase in attendance from 2024 to 2025—a true testament to the impact of her work and her commitment to community well-being. 

For more information about LaTrisha’s professional endeavors, follow her on LinkedIn.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

At BCRT, we are proud to shine a spotlight on our own Bea Saba, whose more than 30 years in the library field have enriched communities and inspired countless colleagues. Bea has been a true champion for expanding access to knowledge, nurturing community partnerships, and fostering lifelong learning—values that reflect the very heart of our work. 

Bea’s outstanding service and leadership have been recognized across the state and beyond. She is a 2025 You’re the Tops Recipient, a 2025 Jefferson Award Recipient, and the TLA Outstanding Services to Libraries Awardwinner.

We are honored to count Bea among our members and celebrate her extraordinary contributions to libraries and the communities they serve. Congratulations, Bea—you are an inspiration to us all!

For more information about Bea’s professional endeavors, follow her on LinkedIn.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

The Black Caucus Round Table proudly recognizes Chair LaTrisha Milton for being featured on Great Day Houston! As Houston Public Library’s Youth & Family Services Manager, LaTrisha led a fantastic Summer Reading Program that brought families together across the city to explore, imagine, and discover.

Great Day Houston, hosted by Deborah Duncan, is a lifestyle magazine talk show that connects people in the community while educating and entertaining viewers. Learn more and watch the feature on our X post.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

The Black Caucus Round Table proudly recognizes Web Administrator Christina Taylor for hosting the July 2025 episode of the Libraries Transform Texas podcast! In this conversation, Christina speaks with Alexa Harrison, Library Youth Fellow at El Paso Public Libraries, about Centre Future—a dynamic program that empowers disconnected youth ages 16–24 to re-engage with school or work.

Alexa shares how Centre Future’s three pillars—Job Lab, Skill Studio, and Care Corner—offer career guidance, hands-on skill development, and holistic support. The discussion highlights the program’s youth-led approach, the power of peer mentorship, and how success is measured through personal growth as much as statistics.

The Libraries Transform Texas podcast showcases the vital role libraries play in communities across the state. Each episode features conversations with library professionals, educators, advocates, and thought leaders who share how libraries are shaping education, equity, and engagement in today’s world. Learn more and listen on the podcast’s webpage.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

The Black Caucus Round Table proudly celebrates Councilor Brandi Grant for moderating the “Poetry in Motion” panel at the 14th annual SLJTeen Live! event. This dynamic session featured celebrated authors Jeannine Atkins (Knocking on Windows), Margarita Engle (Island Creatures), Nikita Gill (Hekate), and Amber McBride (The Leaving Room). Together, they explored how verse novels use lyrical, compact language to give voice to teen experiences and amplify the power of emotion in storytelling.

From rom-coms and mysteries to graphic novels and coming-of-age stories, SLJTeen Live! offered a full day of author panels, keynotes, and a virtual exhibit hall—all spotlighting the latest in teen literature. For those who work with youth, these events remain an invaluable way to stay inspired and connected to emerging voices in young adult literature.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

Exciting News! BCRT member Alice Faye Duncan is releasing her new book The Dream Buider’s Blueprint on Jan 6, 2026 — a powerful retelling of Dr. King’s 1967 message to youth. A must-read for students & educators.

Preview now available!

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

Congratulations to Black Caucus Round Table member Andrea Cabrera on being accepted into the TALL Texans Leadership Class of 2025!

Andrea Cabrera is a Senior Public Services Librarian with the Plano Public Library and has been with the organization since 2015. She earned her MLS in 2020 from The University of North Texas, with a graduate certificate in Youth Services. As a member of PPL’s Early Literacy Committee, she manages staff education in early learning programs, storytimes, and puppet shows. She also develops system-wide staff training on subjects like ethics in libraries and personal performance, serves on the PPL Collection Development Committee, and offers digital resource assistance to patrons.

Andrea is passionate about mentoring and increasing Black and Latinx representation in librarianship. She looks forward to attending the TALL Texans Leadership Institute to grow her leadership skills, connect with peers, and advance her professional goals.

Members of the TALL Texans Class of 2025 were selected from a highly competitive pool of Texas library leaders to explore leadership principles, interpersonal communication, ethics, organizational change, mentorship, conflict resolution, and more. For more information, visit the program website.

***

Interested in being in the spotlight?! By completing our Member Spotlight Form, you can easily share your accomplishments, contributions, and celebrations in the library world. Then, we’ll take care of the rest.

Join us in congratulating the newly elected 2025-2026 Black Caucus Round Table Officers! We can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make!

Thank you to all the members who volunteered, candidates who ran, those who voted, and to TLA for allowing us to let our voices be heard.

Interested in connecting or volunteering with us during the upcoming Annual Conference? Then, visit BCRT @TxLA25  for more information.

Join Today! 

Discovering a space for professional networking and development is an important first step on a fulfilling journey in librarianship. One of the highlights of the annual TLA renewal is the opportunity to consider which round table will best align with your career and personal aspirations as a librarian. TLA round tables are designed to cultivate community among librarians with shared interests. Joining the Black Caucus Round Table offers an opportunity for librarians at all stages in their career to advocate for diverse librarianship, enhance patrons’ cultural experiences, and promote equity through an inclusive library collection. Members of the Black Caucus Roundtable take pride in their contributions and accomplishments within the library community and are committed to making a positive impact within the TLA ecosystem. Take some time to explore and contemplate how being a part of the Black Caucus Round Table could benefit you in your purpose as a librarian.

As a member of BCRT, you’ll have a voice in this year’s TLA election cycle, which is currently ongoing; if you’ve been a member or wish to be, make sure to renew your membership and designate BCRT as one of your round tables before January 31, 2025 at 11:59 PM Central. Then, vote on this year’s BCRT candidates!

Relive the unforgettable moments from the 2025 Black Caucus Round Table Reception at #TxLA25! From inspiring speeches to lively line dancing, the evening was a true celebration of culture. Courtesy of Youngblood videography, watch the full recap video here.

The Black Caucus Round Table extends our deepest gratitude to Dr. Ibram X. Kendi and 2025 Ashley Bryan Award Recipient Kwame Alexander for joining us as distinguished special guests at our signature programs during this year’s Texas Library Association Annual Conference.

Dr. Kendi, your powerful insights and unwavering commitment to truth and justice inspired meaningful dialogue and reflection at our author brunch. Your presence was an honor and a privilege.

Mr. Alexander, your vibrant storytelling and dynamic energy at the Reception left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. Your words reminded us of the transformative power of literature and community.

Thank you both for sharing your time, your wisdom, and your artistry with us. Your contributions made this year’s events unforgettable.

Dust off your cowboy hats and polish up those boots—it’s time to hit the dance floor! Join us for the Black Caucus Round Table’s Reception in D-Town! Saddle up for a night of fun, fellowship, and a little line dancing to boot! 

As a brief history of line dancing will be shared to kick off the festivities, y’all don’t want to miss this rootin’-tootin’ good time. So, tag a fellow librarian and let’s make it a hoedown to remember!

Thursday, April 3, 2025

6:00-7:30 PM

J. Erik Johnson Central Library | O’Hara Hall (7th Floor)

To secure your event ticket today, visit the BCRT @TxLA25 microsite.

Calling all #TLA2025 attendees, join us at the Black Caucus Round Table Business Meeting on Thursday, April 3rd, at 3:00 PM in room D169 to hear the latest updates and meet your 2025-2026 officers!

This is a fantastic opportunity to connect, collaborate, and share ideas with fellow library professionals.

Interested in furher connecting with us during the upcoming Annual Conference? Then, visit BCRT @TxLA25  for more information. Let’s shape the future together—see you there!

Visit BCRT @TxLA25 to better connect with us during Annual Conference

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

• Author Brunch & Ashley Bryan Award Presentation |  10:00 AM - Noon

• Author Showcase @ Exhibit Hall Booth  |  10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Thursday, April 3, 2025

• Business Meeting  |   9:30 - 10:30 AM

• Author Showcase @ Exhibit Hall Booth  |  10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

• Reception  |  6:00 - 7:30 PM

Congratulation, Kwame Alexander!

Award Presentation  | TxLA25  |  Dallas, TX 

BCRT is excited to announce the 2025 winner of the Ashley Bryan Award, Kwame Alexander. Alexander is the acclaimed author of The Crossover, a novel that follows twin brothers navigating life on and off the basketball court. The Crossover has captured the imaginations of readers worldwide and earned the Newbery Medal in 2015. 

The Ashley Bryan Award honors an established Black author for their body of work and a Black author debut work in alternating years. The award recognizes an author’s contribution to highlighting and promoting humanity, diversity, culture, and community in children’s literature. 

An Emmy–winning executive producer, showrunner, and writer, Kwame’s production company is dedicated to creating innovative, highly original children’s and family entertainment. His mission is to change the world, one word at a time.

The award will be presented at the Texas Library Association 2025 Annual Conference in Dallas in April. 

For details about this honor, visit our award page.

Congratulations

Brandi Grant and Makilah Sullivan

Each year, BCRT supports professionals, paraprofessionals, and students of African descent in attending the Texas Library Association Annual Conference through stipends to offset the expense.

To qualify, applicants must be:

• Black/African American

• Registered as a current member of Texas Library Association and Black Caucus Round Table

For more information, visit our stipend webpage.

BCRT Author Showcase

April 2-3 , 2024  |  10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

2025 TLA Annual Conference

#BCRT #TxLA25 

Are you a member of BCRT and an author who would like to be spotlighted during The TLA 2025 Annual Conference? Sign up by December 8th to be part of the BCRT Exhibit Hall Booth, where you can engage directly with TLA guests.

• Signup Form: available on the BCRT @TxLA25 microsite

• Deadline to Apply: December 8, 2024

Application submissions are closed 

Each year, the Black Caucus Round Table (BCRT) invites professionals, paraprofessionals, and students of African descent to apply for a stipend to offset the cost of the registration and accommodations for attending the Texas Library Association Annual Conference!

To qualify, you must be:

• Black/African American

• Registered as a current member of Texas Library Association and Black Caucus Round Table

For more information, visit our stipend webpage.

Citizen Mapping

February 18, 2025  |  6:30 PM  |  Online

#BCRT

To access the meeting link, click here. 

Membership Has Its Privileges  

December 17, 2024  |  6:30 PM  | Online 

#BCRT 

To access the meeting link, complete the meeting registration form. 

Weathering Human Resources 

October 15, 2024  |  6:30 PM  | Online 

#BCRT 

To access the meeting link, click here. 

Various Roles Within Librarianship 

August 20, 2024  |  6:30 PM  | Online 

#BCRT 

To access the meeting link, click here.