I am because We are

I am April

I am April. I am a lot of things: a twin, mom, biracial, queer, graduate student at UNCG, aspiring librarian, radical in my own right, a truth seeker, a Jersey girl, and a sucker for the south.

I have chosen to start this tumblr as apart of my exploration, and research of my work of being a librarian in training. I am intrigued by libraries they ahve always been a staple in my life not because I am the most studius person in the world but more because of the comfort, safety and stability they provide. As a young adult to know libraries have served me through enrichment programming, a place to host meetings of the minds and as a community organizer a free venue to host events. Libraries are so powerful, there historic presence speaks to me as well. Libraries were the battlefields were racial integration and equal access were fought. The library has great work to do regarding preservation of histories particulary those who are sexual and gender minority. This is my life's work as I see it, and apart of that is to serve my community in the magical place that is the library.
During my coursework I partook in an independent study. It focused on building a library and community building but it turned into so much more. I wanted to know what is the magic that libraries hold. Everyone has a library story, a sentiment, a memory. Libraries provide a sense of community, belonging. There is a culture in this place that holds and maintains cultures. My research for this study stems from Bell Hooks BelongingLCulture of Place. These familiar institutions speak to the hearts of its community members and this blog explores why, how, and so much more.
My independent study was hosted by a local and unique learning creating space, Elsewhere Museum and Living Library. Upon my migration from the north to the south it was a space that I was able to feel creative in and I felt alive. Upon reading you will discover me and elsewhere as I discover me and elsewhere.

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May 2, 2012

Elsewhere, a living museum by zenjazzygeek on Flickr.

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