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Passion to a cause exhibits itself in dedicated performance.

I think what I like most about blogging is that it allows me to talk with others while I’m talking to myself. I need to keep getting involved in various capacities to continue to dialog regarding the lack of presence of authors of color in young adult literature. I include the need for works by Native Americans in that discussion as they are a nation recognized by the US government. I can’t fight for more works by authors of color without recognized the need for literature that includes those who are differently abled, LGBT, or of different religions.

Have you ever read a book about a blind teen?

This fight is deep and old.

The ALA provides the following opportunity to share diversity programming, network with like minded folk and find resources.

STILL TIME TO APPLY: Diversity in Action, Family Literacy presentations sought for 2014 Diversity & Outreach Fair

CHICAGO – The ALA Office for Literacy and Outreach Services (OLOS) invites library professionals from all kinds of institutions to submit proposals to participate in the 2014 Diversity and Outreach Fair, to be held at ALA’s Annual Conference in Las Vegas from 3 – 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 28. Applications will be accepted through Thursday, May 15, 2014.

Generously sponsored by DEMCO, the ALA Diversity and Outreach Fair is an opportunity for libraries and member groups to share their successful diversity and outreach initiatives with ALA Annual Conference attendees, celebrate diversity in America’s libraries and exhibit “diversity in action” ideas. The theme of this year’s fair will be family literacy.

The 2014 Diversity and Outreach Fair will feature innovative and successful library-based family literacy programs.  Family literacy encompasses a broad range of library programming from all areas of the profession, including early childhood services as well as teen programs, digital literacy, teen programming, financial literacy and other initiatives that bring families together. Using all technologies and materials, from books to tablet computers, family literacy initiatives promote literacy across the lifespan.

Also considered for participation are proposals that highlight library services to underserved or underrepresented communities, including people with disabilities; poor and homeless populations; people of color; English-language learners; gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people; new Americans, new and non-readers; older adults; people living in rural areas; incarcerated people and ex-offenders and mobile library services and bookmobiles.

Selected presenters will develop and facilitate a poster session to be held during the ALA 2014 Annual Conference in the exhibits hall.  In addition, the participants are encouraged to submit, in digital format, information and resources from their program.

For more information, and to apply, please visit www.ala.org/divfair.