This session explores how school and public librarians can create more welcoming, culturally responsive library environments that foster reading motivation and a sense of belonging for young Black males in grades K-12. Drawing from recent dissertation research featuring narrative interviews with seven Black men recounting their library experiences, this program will examine the critical role that relationships, relevant collections, and inclusive programming play in engaging this historically underserved demographic.
Participants will learn practical strategies for implementing Radical Empathy approaches, conducting equity audits of library policies and collections, and building meaningful connections with young Black male patrons. The session will provide actionable frameworks including the Black Male Library Literacy Initiative model and Human-Centered Design Thinking approaches tailored specifically for library settings. Attendees will leave with concrete tools to assess and transform their library spaces into environments where young Black males can see themselves, feel valued, and develop lifelong reading habits.
