Statement

The Seattle Public Library stands in solidarity with the members of our community who are advocating for anti-racist practices in government and protesting against the continued oppression of Black people in America. As an institution 130 years in the making, the Library understands that we are also rooted in an oppressive history and have our own listening, learning and unlearning to do. The deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Manuel Ellis, Tony McDade, Charleena Lyles – and too many others – are devastating and point to a much larger systemic problem that must be addressed. Our community's response to this injustice, though, re-energizes our continued efforts to end systemic racism in our city. We have many steps left to take on our journey.

Racial Equity Goals

Young patron visiting the bookmobile outside the Wing Luke Preschool.

Reducing barriers to access for low-income children of color

According to Seattle Public Schools and the City of Seattle, Seattle has one of the largest gaps in achievement between black and white students in the nation.

Learn more about reducing barriers for children

 

Staff helping patron borrow a SPL HotSpot at the Goodwill store.

Striving for equity in internet access and online services

According to a recent City of Seattle Digital Equity Report, nearly 30% of Seattle parents who only have internet access via smartphone or tablet report hitting data limits that limited their access; more than 20% had their phones cut off for nonpayment.

Learn more about equity in internet access and online services

 

Yaa Gyasi, selected author of 2018 Seattle Reads, speaks to the audience.

Representing and investing in people of color

According to the American Community Survey, more than a third of Seattle residents – 34% – are people of color, and 22% of the population speaks a language other than English at home.

Learn more about representing and investing in people of color