Kids notice the world around them. It can sometimes be uncomfortable for a parent to talk to their child about differences. It can be equally uncomfortable for library staff to address issues of race when they do not have the proper training. The Early Literacy Team addressed two issues: ensuring that material used in storytimes was reflective of the community and giving parents the tools to talk about race and equity issues with their children.

Librarian Jessica Bratt developed a toolkit and led a staff training on talking about race in storytimes. It included easy entry points for starting the conversation, as well as more advanced conversation starters. The kit included a coaching guide for staff, book recommendations for different age groups and tips to share with parents. Staff began incorporating discussions about race in December 2016 classes and Jessica introduced the toolkit externally at the 2017 ALA Annual Conference.

This training helps parents and librarians teach children to use appropriate wording and fight early biases when introduced to new cultures. Many caretakers were hesitant about asking for books dealing with race for children aged birth through five-years-old. These talks have helped librarians engage parents in reading racially-diverse books and talking with their kids. Staff will create another toolkit and training about LGBTQ issues next. The goal is to continue having mindful conversations with children about the greater world.