... and justice for all: Silicon Valley Reads 2017
Santa Clara County Library, Calif.
Innovation Synopsis
The Santa Clara County Library District was the fiscal agent and co-sponsor of Silicon Valley Reads 2017. The theme "equal justice" was explored through a variety of participant experiences including books, plays, art exhibits, films, panel discussions and more. This created a fully immersive experience to stimulate a rich discussion.
Challenge/Opportunity
The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office revealed racial inequities in the county’s prosecution rates. District Attorney Jeff Rosen stated, “The question coming from our community and across America: is our justice system fair to everyone?” Santa Clara County Library District partnered with community organizations to explore and examine how conscious and unconscious bias can interfere with equal justice. With this coordinated effort, we delved into the topic engaging participants visually, emotionally and intellectually.
Key Elements of Innovation
SCCLD partnered with a dozen community organizations including the County Office of Education, League of Women Voters, San Jose Public Libraries, colleges and more to effectively explore the topic of “equal justice.” The coordinated approach allowed SCCLD to engage with our community members in a more meaningful way, to create a deeper discussion. It also provided SCCLD and the county with much needed input to provide overall improved customer service for all.
Achieved Outcomes
During February and March 2017, “…and justice for all” offered over 140 free events for adults, teens and children. In a follow up survey, 82 percent of participants rated the program as Excellent, 93 percent learned new information and 80 percent got a different perspective on the subject matter, affirming its impact on the community. Over 9,200 participants attended the Silicon Valley Reads events in 2017, with 83 percent finding the theme to be very relevant to their community.