The Other Side of the Street: Urban Fiction in Public Libraries
Sunday, January 29, 2023
3:00 PM – 4:15 PM
Location: Morial Convention Center, Room 291-292
Level of Participation: High
Please note: this session included individual or small group work so there will be breaks in the presentation.
Urban Fiction is one of the fastest growing genres in the United States, and public libraries are faced with the challenge of meeting the reading needs of underrepresented urban communities. Exclusion of Black voices in public libraries has, historically, been intentional, and the inclusion of those voices is an act of resistance and empowerment. This session will cover the history, hallmarks, and sub-genres of Urban Fiction, providing attendees with resources to adapt staff development trainings at their home libraries. Participants will leave with practical strategies for readers’ advisory and developing a full and diverse collection.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participant will be able to recognize and differentiate at least 3-5 genre conventions, appeals, and sub-genres of the Urban Fiction genre.
Upon completion, participant will be able to chart the history and significance of the Urban Fiction genre from its beginnings to its present popularity.
Upon completion, participant will be able to identify two development strategies to grow their Urban Fiction collections.
Upon completion, participant will be able to recount 3-5 notable authors, titles, and publishers within the Urban Fiction genre.
