Libraries welcome authors to speak about diversity

Three local libraries will host a virtual visit with authors Dr. Carolyn B. Helsel and Dr. Yvette Joy Harris-Smith at 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 14.

Helsel and Harris-Smith will discuss their book, "The ABCs of Diversity: Helping Kids (and Ourselves!) Embrace Our Differences," and have a conversation on teaching kids how to become champions of diversity.

The book offers guidance to help parents, teachers, and caregivers of children and teens navigate discussions about differences so they can raise individuals committed to respectful civic engagement.

"We are proud to offer a forum with these diversity experts for our patrons, recognizing that starting conversations about diversity with children can seem daunting," said Mary Smith, Youth Services Department head at the Mount Prospect Public Library.

"The work of Drs. Helsel and Harris-Smith empowers parents to invite their children to be part of these conversations."

The authors will offer tips, from dealing with the initial processing of anxiety and fear of presenting the information in a correct way, to how to organize and network with others to raise diversity awareness in your family and community.

An opportunity for a Q&A with the audience will follow the 45-minute presentation.

Presented in partnership with Aurora, Mount Prospect and Villa Park public libraries, the event will be held virtually via Zoom.

Registration is required by calling any of the partnering libraries or visiting their websites. To register, visit bit.ly/ABCdiversity.