Washington County Library: Jazz And Friends National Day Of School And Community Readings

Press release from Washington County Library:

February 22, 2022

Join us for books, discussion, and more! Our readings and resources are in partnership with Welcoming School’s Jazz & Friends National Day of School and Community Readings in support of transgender and nonbinary youth in our community. 

Sharing books by and about transgender and nonbinary people is important because "when students read books where they see characters like themselves who are valued in the world, they feel a sense of belonging. When students have the opportunity to learn about diverse backgrounds, languages, abilities and perspectives, they develop an understanding about the wider world."

You can see our contributions through this YouTube playlist, and additional resources and recommendations at the links below.

Book Discussion

After you've watched our readings, we encourage you to review these discussion questions as a family. Find ideas for discussion questions here.

Recommended Books for All Ages

Our librarians have put together a list of inclusive books that aim to support transgender and nonbinary youth and their families as well as embrace inclusion and acceptance of all our community members. As you scroll through, you will find books for children, teens, and adults.

Katelyn, a children's librarian at Park Grove Library in Cottage Grove, has also compiled additional recommendations for babies and young children in this video. 

Recommended Videos for Kids

Check out more fun videos for kids that include transgender and gender nonbinary performers as well as some videos to help to explain gender identity in a kid friendly way.

Legal Information for Families

Navigating the legal system when it comes to a name change and/or sex affirmation can be complicated. Luckily, we have Law Librarian Suzi to uncomplicate the process. Watch Suzi provide legal information for parents and check out a list of legal resources. 

Additional Resources on Gender Identity

The videos, books, and information we’ve provided here are just a drop in the bucket when it comes to all there is to learn and celebrate about the transgender and nonbinary experience. We encourage you to continue to explore gender identity with these excellent websites.

This press release was produced by Washington County Library. The views expressed here are the author’s own.