The Mississippi Humanities Council has approved $29,000 in Anti-Racism Reading Shelf Grants for public library systems across the state. Ranging from $750 for single branch systems to $1500 for larger multi-branch systems, these grants will help put books in over 150 public libraries in Mississippi.
In the response to the national conversation about systemic racism prompted by the murder of George Floyd and other incidents, the Mississippi Humanities Council created a special grant program to help Mississippi public libraries purchase books on the history of white supremacy and how to create a racially equitable society. Working with the Mississippi Library Commission and humanities scholars, the MHC compiled a suggested reading list of over 120 books for libraries to choose from.
Twenty-seven library systems applied and received funds. One library director noted in their application, “Our collection on this subject is sadly outdated. These books will update our current collection and help inform our community on the subject of racism and how to battle it.” Another wrote “These books will create conversations around difficult topics as well as bring in viewpoints to our collection that have been under-represented.”
“We created this program because we believe books and ideas can change lives. We know there is a tremendous need for books and programs about how we can understand and overcome our history of racism,” said MHC Executive Director Stuart Rockoff.
One library director explained how their grant would benefit their institution; “Providing these materials, will help empower staff and patrons alike to stand up for injustices and make the library a better place for the community as well as a more equitable place to work.”
To complement these grants, the MHC has created a special section of its Speakers Bureau so libraries and other nonprofit organizations can bring in scholars from the University of Mississippi, Jackson State University, Millsaps College, Mississippi State University, and Mississippi College to discuss a range of topics related to systemic racism. A list of scholars and presentations can be found at www.mshumanities.org.
Funds to support the Anti-Racism Reading Shelf program come from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Thomas M. Blake Charitable Fund #2 of the Community Foundation for Mississippi, and generous private donations from Mississippians.