Skip to main content
close
Font size options
Increase or decrease the font size for this website by clicking on the 'A's.
Contrast options
Choose a color combination to give the most comfortable contrast.

Inclusion

We strengthen neighborhoods by embracing culture, inclusion, and social justice.


Back to Homepage

The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System is committed to being an anti-racist library, by providing equitable access to inclusive physical and virtual spaces for learning and gathering. The Library will facilitate, model, and create opportunities to celebrate and explore differences and shared heritage. Real change happens when barriers are eliminated and honest conversations raise awareness of community needs. These inclusive conversations allow staff to explore equity, diversity, inclusion, and antiracism topics in order to expand relationships with partners and provide and adapt services to support customers.

PGCMLS branches will serve as anchors for surrounding neighborhood communities, celebrating the differences and unique qualities of the customers they serve. The Library and its partners will advance the community's sense of belonging at libraries through thoughtful customer service interactions, increased multilingual access to the Library, and engaging outreach.

Staff will promote a library experience that welcomes and affirms all in our community. This vision is reflected in customers' experience of PGCMLS as a trusted resource for supporting their day-to-day needs and aspirational life goals. The Library will foster a deeper sense of belonging in the County by celebrating the many cultures represented in our neighborhoods. At every point of service, whether in person or online, our staff and partners will incorporate best practices for embracing culture, diversity, and social justice advocacy

"We want to support our communities and help people from all backgrounds and walks of life feel welcome, valued, and enriched by their library experience."
- Vanessa Chandler-King
PGCMLS Team Member
Black Lives Matter
Anansegromma of Ghana at the Accokeek Branch celebrating Black History Month

Anansegromma of Ghana at the Accokeek Branch celebrating Black History Month

Award-winning illustrator Gordon C. James presenting to
community members at the Oxon Hill Branch

Award-winning illustrator Gordon C. James presenting to community members at the Oxon Hill Branch

In The Near Future

  • VIRTUAL DIVERSITY EVENTS

    Virtual events for all ages expand access to PGCMLS services. Appearances by bestselling authors, community leaders, creators, and library staff provide the community with opportunities to see themselves reflected and learn about equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism.

  • LIBRARY PODCASTS

    A new PGCMLS podcast series will highlight the successes and dreams of County residents. Stories of inspiration, hope, and kindness will be shared by customers and library staff.

  • PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY HERITAGE PROJECT

    In 2020, the Library launched the Prince George's County Heritage Project, which is a hub for learning about the cultures that compose the diverse local community. These dynamic pages will grow and evolve throughout 2021-2024 with new resources and programs that reflect the Library's commitment to celebrating diverse communities year-round, not just during heritage months.

  • MOVIES THAT MATTER

    The Library will host film screenings and watch parties of thought-provoking movies in collaboration with the Prince George's County Human Relations Commission. Screenings will be paired with discussions of the films' themes, led by community members.