Where are you from? It’s a natural question that everyone asks. We are surrounded by hundreds of new people, waiting in line for a copy of Joanna Ho’s book to be signed or waiting for a session to start. It’s an easy small talk question. But it is one that I have become hesitant to answer.
You see, I’m from Idaho. The state that used to be known for potatoes or our blue football turf. Now we are known as the “the state with the library that went viral.” You probably know it–the one that has a sign about no kids under eighteen being allowed inside its walls, thanks to new legislation. Yes, I am from that state.
However, as I have quickly discovered while here at ALSC Institute, I am surrounded by my people. And I mean MY PEOPLE (not just the two from my branch who are also here with me–Hey Nikki and Angie!). When I talk about Idaho, I immediately get asked how am I doing. I get asked about how can they–whether an organization like We Need Diverse Books or the myriad of librarians I encounter–can help. I have been brought to tears many times.
Let’s be real. It’s been a tough couple of years for all of us. We all have it difficult in this time of book bans, challenges, and political unrest. I know personally there have been times where I have asked the question, Can I even do this anymore? Being here at ALSC Institute, I am reminded, invigorated, that YES. I. CAN.
It’s one of the unsung takeaways that is coming home with me, back to the city where a minority UNsuccessfully tried to dissolve my library. ALSC is a place where you feel safe. You are surrounded by family. You are instantly in a room with likeminded individuals who want to take up the fight alongside you. And y’all, it’s only the end of Day 1. I know this feeling will continue into Saturday.
Conference Blogger Gabrielle (Gabby) Stoller (she/her/hers) is a Meridian Library District, Youth Services Librarian. She is looking forward to co-presenting at the Institute (her session is “Turning the Page on Trauma“), meeting other youth services staff from across the country, and also exploring Denver’s food scene! Gabby is a wife and mother, an INFJ, an Enneagram 6. She’s obsessed with cookbooks, collecting picture books, and binge watching TV shows. It’s also football season! Go (Boise State) Broncos!
Please note that as a guest post, the views expressed here do not represent the official position of ALA or ALSC.