Library Of The Chathams Calls On Community To Show Its Diversity

CHATHAM, NJ — Not everyone in the Chathams speaks English as their first language and the Library of the Chathams is recognizing the community's cultures and languages during National Library Week in April.

In recognition of the many cultures that make up the Chathams' community, the Library of the Chathams said it is inviting adults and children to help celebrate that diversity by welcoming one another to connect with the library and the community.

Community members are invited to come to the library April 3-9 and write "welcome" in their first or native language. Supplies will be provided. The "welcome" contributions will be used to create a tapestry reflecting the diversity and beauty of the Chathams, according to a news release from the library.

A kickoff celebration happens on Sunday, April 3 at 3 p.m. The library said the event is part of the library's effort to "improve, innovate, and respond to its customers through our Coming Out of the Dark Ages (CODA) Community Taskforce."

A news statement explained that in order for the library to be perceived as more current and vibrant, Taskforce members are working on:

• Revamping policies that are inconvenient for residents.
• Creating library signage that makes navigation more intuitive.
• Migration to a single eBooks platform with more new titles and shorter wait times, giving more patrons access to the books they want from home or on the go.
• Requesting more community input on additions to the library’s collection. Residents can make book selection requests at chathamlibrary.org/request-to-purchase/
• Allowing staff more flexibility in making decisions that benefit our patrons.

"The library is working towards breaking even more barriers and making our library a safer and more welcoming space for all Chatham residents," the statement said.

Questions can be sent to Assistant Director Galina Natenzon at gnatenzon@chathamlibrary.org.

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