Spring 2023
The African American Medical Librarians Alliance's Virtual Engagement Committee invites all members to join us for a three-part series focused on leading courageously. This series features a dynamic group of library leaders who will share insights and wisdom gained from their leadership journey in library science.
*All sessions will take place 1:00 - 2:30 PM (CST)/2:00 - 3:30 PM (EST) unless otherwise noted.
January 18, 2023
Panelists Michael S. Fitts, Lorin Jackson, Dr. Lynne Simpson, and Wanda Whitney will share how they lead courageously from the middle.
March 15, 2023
In celebration of Women’s History Month, Dr. Stephanie Allen will present Black Feminist and Leadership.
April 19, 2023
Panelists Barnaby Nicolas, LaVentra Ellis-Danquah, Jason Smith, and Aidy Weeks will reflect on what they wish they had known before they became library directors.
Book Discussion
Join us for a 2-part discussion of Eating While Black: Food Shaming and Race in America by Psyche Williams-Forson. In Eating While Black, she offers her knowledge and experience to illuminate how anti-Black racism operates in the practice and culture of eating. She shows how mass media, nutrition science, economics, and public policy drive entrenched opinions among both Black and non-Black Americans about what is healthful and right to eat. Distorted views of how and what Black people eat are pervasive, bolstering the belief that they must be corrected and regulated. What is at stake is nothing less than whether Americans can learn to embrace nonracist understandings and practices in relation to food.
Session 1 - February 16, 1:00 - 2:30 PM (CST)/2:00 - 3:30 PM (EST)
Session 2 - February 23, 1:00 - 2:30 PM (CST)/2:00 - 3:30 PM (EST)
Words of Wisdom
In honor of Black History Month and as part of MLA Experience, join the African American Medical Librarians Alliance Caucus for Words of Wisdom Returns! This session will feature conversations with seasoned African American Librarians to honor the historical footprint of AAMLA and the African American community.
Feb 15, 2023, 12-1:30p PST; 1-2:30p MST; 2-3:30p CST, 3-4:30p EST
MLA Reads is a virtual book discussion group focused on discussing books on DEI topics. By making our libraries more inclusive, we can better serve all of our users. This book club is an opportunity to learn how you can increase inclusivity and equity in both your workplace and your personal life.
Discussion groups meet monthly for 90 minutes over a four to five month period. It is best to use a device with a microphone and camera to have the richest experience. Discussion groups are lead by co-facilitators who work in libraries of all types. At each meeting, specific chapters will be discussed. There will also be opportunities for attendees to do activities outside of the book club meetings. Virtual book club participants will select one club to join. Makeup sessions are scheduled to accommodate changing schedules. MLA CE credit is awarded for participation.