Many Americans feel the growing political divide in our country among their own families and friends. In a purple state like Pennsylvania, it leaves us wondering: how can we live right next to someone and have two completely different experiences of the world? We know this divide grows wider when we can`t or won`t listen to differing viewpoints, but how do we discuss these contentious topics without risking our relationships? Dr. Abigail Michelini`s workshop offers pragmatic strategies for listening across political differences. Her research shows that two people do not have to agree or find common ground in order to remain open and communicate effectively. Come ready to learn, to listen, and to engage in hands-on practices that foster community and help bridge our political divide, one conversation at a time.

Funding for this program comes from the National Endowment for the Humanities and is being offered in partnership with Northampton Community College.

As a courtesy and because space is limited, if you are unable to attend, please cancel your reservation in advance so others on the waitlist may join. Thank you!

BAPL Coolidge
2740 Fifth Street
Bethlehem, PA 18020 ...

Join us at the Bethlehem Area Public Library, Main Branch, for an engaging roundtable discussion on cultural representation in institutional collections. This free event, co-sponsored by The Museum and Library Alliance of the Greater Lehigh Valley (MLA), brings together five local experts in academia and cultural institutions to explore critical topics such as securing funding, identifying donation sources, achieving collection goals, and understanding self-bias. Registration is encouraged.

Panelists:
-Mary Foltz, Associate Professor at Lehigh University, co-directs the South Side Initiative, promoting public humanities and civic engagement.
-Katelyn Lucas is the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for Delaware Nation and manages the Nation`s extension office at Lehigh University.
-Ana Ramírez Luhrs is co-director of Lafayette College Special Collections and College Archives. Previously, Ana was the Kirby Librarian for the Government and Law department and a member of the research and instruction team at Skillman Library, Lafayette College.
-Janine Carambot Santoro is the Director of Equity and Inclusion for the City of Bethlehem, leading efforts to develop the City`s first Equity Plan and Environmental Justice framework.
-Jill Schennum, author of As Goes Bethlehem, holds a Ph.D. in cultural anthropology and has spent 15 years researching ex-steelworkers and deindustrialization in Bethlehem, PA.

Bethlehem Area Public Library
Saturday, October 19, 2024
Register here: https://t.ly/BS7UM ...

The coolest library marketing duo to ever exist 😆 ...

Join us for Bugtopia Bingo next Saturday, October 19th from 2-3PM! Recommended for ages 5+! ...