From Collection Development to Collective Action: Librarians Have the Right Skills to Make a Difference (TM20)

Librarianship and activism share a common foundation: a commitment to access and community empowerment. This session explores the journey of a special librarian who transitioned to full-time activism, highlighting the transferable skills that make librarians effective advocates for change. From research and information literacy to community engagement and programming, discover how these fundamental parts of librarianship can be utilized to organize local communities, combat disinformation, and influence policy.

Attendees will gain insights into the challenges and rewards of this career shift as well as ways to incorporate activism into their lives without giving up librarianship. Whether continuing to work in libraries or taking their advocacy to the next level, participants will leave inspired to use their professional expertise as a force for transformation.