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Race Project KC

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Libraries provide access to information and resources to all, regardless of race, religion, economic standing, political affiliations, or any other characteristic or belief. We also offer safe spaces that encourage respectful civic discourse. At Johnson County Library, respect for all people is not just an ideal; it was purposely written into our Library values. Our mission is to provide access to information, ideas, experiences and materials that support and enrich people’s lives, and we are committed to serving and supporting our community.

Johnson County Library offers several resources for those seeking education and civic engagement opportunities. Programming such as Gather at the Table brings people from diverse backgrounds together to engage in civil discourse over often divisive topics. Race Project KC, an annual immersive social justice initiative sponsored by JCL, aims to help high school students understand Kansas City’s and Johnson County’s story of structural racism and how it continues to impact us today. We also offer access to the Dividing Lines audio tour, which allows listeners to explore the history of segregation in the Kansas City metro, at their own pace and in their own vehicles. And you can find book and media resource recommendations from our Librarians on jocolibrary.org, such as this list of books for kids and teens by Black authors and Fiction by People of Color.

Now, more than ever, is a time to reflect on our unequal past, uncertain present and the creation of an equitable future. Libraries are both a resource and a refuge for those seeking greater knowledge and understanding. We look forward to listening to, learning with and supporting our community in the weeks and months ahead.

Finally, thank you to those who have donated so far or reached out about partnership opportunities in support of Race Project KC. If you would like to contribute toward their 2020-2021 initiatives and beyond, please visit the Johnson County Library Foundation donation page and type Race Project KC in the “in honor of” field.

 
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TBT: One long week ago ...

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It's Throwback Thursday. Usually we dive into jocohistory from long, long ago. This time, we travel back only one week! We re-opened the drive-thrus and patrons knew it. Here is a time lapse inside and out of Blue Valley Library. One full day of hold pickups and returns condensed down to 2 minutes. It's nonstop! Thanks for your patience!
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Netflix this weekend ... again? Why not Kanopy?

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The uppermost branches of trees in a forest create what is called a canopy. It's the top layer. With your Library card, we offer you the top layer of streaming video. Kanopy has you covered with award winning documentaries, rare and hard-to-find titles, film festival favorites, indie and classic films, and world cinema with collections from Kino Lorber, Music Box Films, Samuel Goldwyn, The Orchard, The Great Courses, PBS, select Janus Films in the Criterion Collection and thousands of independent filmmakers.  

Stream up to 10 titles per month, plus enjoy unlimited streaming from Kanopy Kids and select series.

  • 1 title = 1 play credit, just push the Play button
  • Each play credit allows 3 days (72 hours) of unlimited streaming for that title.

Sure, the Library locations are closed for now, but our eLibrary never closes!

 
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Friday Featured Artist: Stephen T. Johnson

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We know it's been more than a minute since we opened the stunningly beautiful Lenexa City Center Library. It's been even longer since the time three 23 and a 1/2 feet by 5 and a 1/2 feet mosaics were assembled. But, it's Featured Artist Friday! What better time to share the behind-the-scenes time lapse of this wonderful piece of art. Since you can't see it in-person right now, this is the next best thing. 

Stephen T. Johnson is a Caldecott Honor children’s book author/illustrator who lives and works in Lawrence, KS. He has exhibited his artwork both regionally and nationally. We filmed the installation of this mosaic tile by tile. This work of art is part of the Johnson County, KS Public Art Collection. Learn more at jocogov/dept/facilities/public-art-commission.
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Enjoy Unlimited Access Online

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Enjoy the highly reputed reporting and interactive storytelling of The New York Times online. By using our Group Pass, you get unlimited articles, breaking news, multimedia and more with your Library card number and PIN/password!

Discover the latest buzz with your daily pass »