Austin Public Library stands in solidarity with the community against systemic racism, oppression, and injustice

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The Austin Public Library (APL) shares the nation’s anger, sadness, and frustration over the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and the epidemic of violent acts perpetrated against Blacks and people of color across our nation. We condemn this violence and the microaggressions faced by people in our community and across the city on a daily basis.

We reject any actions that degrade or destroy the human spirit. We stand in solidarity with our community against systemic racism, oppression, and injustice.

APL is a safe place to explore, to learn, and to convene hard discussions. We are committed as an institution to bridging cultures within our community, addressing anti blackness and any other forms of oppression that destroy and divide. Part of what makes libraries such an important democratic institution is our commitment to stand with those who are disenfranchised and work to level the playing field for all. We have prioritized equity and breaking down barriers to access. Libraries are safe places where all are welcome, and where diverse people and perspectives can find inclusion and acceptance. We have a unique opportunity as library workers to oppose systemic racism. APL signed the Statement on Race and Social Equity in solidarity with 161 urban library systems. We proudly stand with the American Library Association, the Black Caucus of the American Library Association, Texas Library Association, and the Urban Libraries Council in condemning social injustice and racism in all its forms.

Over the coming weeks we will be finding ways to start those difficult conversations and to support our neighbors to make our city, our community and our country a place for all.