The American Library Association (ALA) has released a new publication, “Libraries and the 2020 Census: Adapting Outreach in Response to COVID-19” and has announced a free webinar for library staff, “2020 Census: Last Chance for a Complete Count,” to be held on July 8, 2020, at 12:00 p.m. MDT.
Libraries are essential partners in achieving a complete count in the 2020 Census. In response to COVID-19, the Census Bureau and libraries delayed and adjusted 2020 Census operations and awareness activities. The four-page tip sheet and upcoming webinar will explain those changes and highlight opportunities for libraries to adapt census outreach activities.
Webinar presenters will include Slone T. Williams from the Cobb County (Ga.) Public Library, Lizette Escobedo from the NALEO Educational Fund, Burton Reist from the U.S. Census Bureau, and Gavin Baker from ALA’s Public Policy and Advocacy office.
The webinar will be offered at no cost to attendees and is presented by ALA’s Public Policy & Advocacy office; the Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services; and the Public Library Association. Registration is required. For more information on ALA’s efforts to support a fair, inclusive and complete count in the 2020 Census, visit ala.org/census. To connect on social media, follow #CountOnLibraries.
Wyoming is currently at a 55.5% self-response rate, still below the national average. The Wyoming State Library’s LSTA funds (averaging nearly $900,000 per year in recent years) are based on census numbers. Undercounting communities leaves an impact on libraries, schools, roads, hospitals, and opportunities for years to come. Click here for more information on how to help us achieve a Complete Count.