Lake Washington Schools Foundation partners with the district’s equity efforts through the commitment of a five-year grant aimed at increasing the diversity of library collections across the district.
This initiative is designed to serve as mirrors, windows, and sliding doors—a concept in literature that emphasizes the importance of books reflecting students’ own experiences (mirrors), offering insights into the experiences of others (windows), and providing opportunities for engagement and understanding across diverse perspectives (sliding doors).
As part of this grant, district librarians receive training to conduct diversity audits of their library collections and identify areas for broadening representation. Funding is provided to each librarian to select and purchase new books that align with the results of their diversity audits.
Through this partnership, our goal is to ensure that every student has access to an inclusive collection where they can see themselves and their peers represented, while also discovering new perspectives and experiences.
As of June 2024, 5,500 new books have been purchased to enhance the diversity of 28 school libraries, benefiting over 19,000 students. An additional 24 schools are set to begin this transformative project over the next two years.
I remember feeling surprised when I first read “Front Desk” by Kelly Yang, because it was a popular chapter book that featured a character who looked just like me. That was really the first time that I could picture an Asian girl being a main character, and not just a side character like those in so many novels I’ve read before. It made me feel important and it made me feel seen. It made me feel like I could be the hero.
Robyn Le, LWSD student
We were not simply reviewing books for diverse perspectives but also for positive representation. Positive depictions of diversity in a library collection allows students to understand themselves and others, preparing them to meeting new people with respect throughout their lives.
Greg Lawson, LWSD Librarian
Thank you for your support and commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity in our school community. We deeply appreciate the work that LWSF does to empower educators and students alike.
Elizabeth Courage, LWSD Librarian
