Inclusive Collections, Inclusive Libraries is an RLUK programme of events that aims to foster conversation around decolonisation and inclusive practice in collecting, describing, presenting, and engaging with content in research library collections. It seeks to raise awareness about the opportunities and challenges of dealing with, contextualising, and engaging with offensive collections while also identifying and sharing examples of good practice.
From Overthinking to Action: Making Library Activism Everyday
Thursday 27 November 14:00 – 15:30 (GMT), 15:00 – 16:30 (CET/SAST), 16:00 – 17:30 (EET), 09:00 – 10:30 (EST), 22:00 – 23:30 (AWST/CST)
This workshop invites library professionals to reflect on their social purpose, focusing on the values, individuals and books that have inspired their practice, and moving towards achievable, impactful action.
Focussing on the theme of ‘everyday activism’ – this session will look at the small, subtle, creative ways we can make positive change in our libraries, our communities and beyond.
As a researcher, I often come across people who do not feel ‘activist enough’, or who feel frozen in the face of overwhelm and scarcity: a cacophony of social causes, calls to action and global events, set against ever-dwindling resources.
This workshop will provide space for reflection, offer inspiration and move towards discovering what ‘everyday activism’ might look like for us – and to go from overthinking to action.
This workshop is for library professionals from all backgrounds who wish to (re)discover their social purpose.
**Please note this will be an interactive virtual workshop with a set capacity, therefore we recommend registering early to ensure your place.
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Sara Huws works with rare books and archives at Cardiff University, unearthing lesser-heard stories and sharing voices from the past in new and unexpected ways. She is the co-founder of the first women’s history museum in the UK, the East End Women’s Museum: a ‘positive protest’ to celebrate the histories of women and girls. These days she is working towards a PhD which explores ‘everyday activism’ through history.
A writer, maker and broadcaster, Sara has found creative ways to share everyday stories of people making a difference in their communities – and hopes to inspire others to take action to do the same. In her spare time she is a competitive powerlifter and loves outdoor adventures – and is a co-founder of inclusive outdoor collective Every Body Outdoors.