91´«Ã½

CHICAGO – Demonstrating the commitment of public libraries to equity, diversity and inclusion, the (PLA) provided a group of 53 high school juniors and seniors from diverse backgrounds with summer jobs with competitive wages at 39 host libraries.

The work of these high-school-aged library interns, along with 47 librarian mentors representing 24 different states, will be recognized during the National Inclusive Internship Initiative commencement event, held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, and from 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, at the Embassy Suites Magnificent Mile, 511 N. Columbus Drive, Chicago.

The program, held for the first time and funded by a Laura Bush 21^st Century Librarian Program Grant (RE-00-17-0129-17) from the , is designed to introduce teenagers to careers in librarianship. The teens were chosen from among the best and brightest from our nation’s rural communities and urban centers.

The commencement event will feature innovative project presentations by the interns, educational sessions with career guidance for aspiring librarians and an awards ceremony recognizing the outstanding work of interns and mentors.

Members of the media interested in attending the event, or speaking with participating interns, library mentors or session leaders, are encouraged to contact Larry Deutsch, PLA manager of communications, at (314) 642-5918 or ldeutsch@ala.org.

About PLA

The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA offers continuing education opportunities, unique public library initiatives, and a conference that welcomes public library staff into meaningful partnership. In collaboration with its parent organization, the 91´«Ã½, PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders.

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