Kansas City, MO – At a time when Americans are increasingly distancing themselves from those with differing viewpoints, the Kansas City Public Library invites patrons to sit down and connect through conversation during the first National Week of Conversation, April 20-28, 2018. The observance affords people across the country an opportunity to participate in events and discussions in hopes of gaining a better understanding of others’ views and experiences.
The Library is one of two “premiere partners,” with the Boston Public Library, leading conversations on such topics as immigration, politics, poverty, and race in a civil manner.
“Libraries have always been a trusted, welcoming place for everyone in our community,” says Carrie Coogan, the Library’s deputy director for public affairs and community engagement. “Now more than ever, we treasure our role in helping to facilitate programs and opportunities for the community to have thoughtful, inclusive and productive conversations.”
The Kansas City Public Library and the public policy nonprofit Consensus are hosting a series of local gatherings:
- Coming to America: Who Should Be Welcome, What Should We Do? | Tuesday, April 24, 2018 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Plaza Branch, 4801 Main St.
- Book Discussion: Not a Crime to Be Poor | Wednesday, April 25, 2018 | 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Central Library, 14 W. 10th St.
- Conversations in Black: A Community Conversation About Race | Thursday, April 26, 2018 | 4-6 p.m. | Southeast Branch, 6242 Swope Pkwy.
- Political Fix: How Should We Get American Politics Back on Track? | Thursday, April 26, 2018 | 4-6 p.m. | Plaza Branch, 4801 Main St.
- Coming to America: Who Should Be Welcome, What Should We Do? | Saturday, April 28, 2018 | 1 - 2:30 p.m. |Central Library, 14 W. 10th St., KCMO
All events are free. For a full list of #NWOC conversations and activities, click here.
“We hope the Kansas City community jumps into a conversation,” Coogan says. “We are all in this together, so we need to work to help understand each other.”
Programming is free at the Kansas City Public Library and free parking is available at all Library locations. Event attendees can RSVP at kclibrary.org or at 816.701.3407.