The Charleston County Public Library this week released a statement on equity and inclusion. You can see it below.
Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) is committed to creating an equitable, diverse and safe environment for its staff and patrons. CCPL recently published its strategic plan for the next three years and it highlights the importance of the library's mission in ensuring equity and diversity in its everyday practices.
The plan partly reads that:
“CCPL is committed to continuing to make equity, diversity and inclusion a part of everything we do—from how we grow our staff to how we serve our patrons. CCPL works to strengthen equity, diversity and inclusion by providing a safe social environment and space for fair and just conversations, exchange of ideas and perspectives.
CCPL celebrates all cultures, ethnicities, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, personal status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and beliefs.
CCPL will foster attitudes of respect, open-mindedness, compassion, and inclusiveness.”
As with many occasions throughout the year including Juneteenth, Black History Month, Veterans Day and others, CCPL marks Pride Month by highlighting titles and programs. CCPL supports the LGBTQIA community all year long and celebrates all cultures, ethnicities, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, personal status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and beliefs. CCPL staff work hard to create a safe, open and welcoming space to every member of the community by acting as a vessel to the world of information and creative content that exists. The Library invites the members of its community to explore its offerings and find what's right for them and above all, we ask that we embark on this exploration acting with mutual respect.
CCPL would also be remiss if it didn't once again acknowledge the anniversary of the Mother Emanuel AME murders and our continued commitment to highlighting the importance of racial equity. You can read our previous statement here and read our full strategic vision here.
