Quick Summary
In every Minnesota community, there's a library. And in every library, you will find workers dedicated to the betterment of their neighbors' lives. That's why the most valuable resource in a library is not just its books, but the people who work there. Jenaya Myvett, the Black American Community Specialist at the Saint Paul Public Library, works to bridge the gap between patrons and the resources they need.
Can you tell us a little about your role as a Community Specialist?
As the Community Specialist for the African American community, with Saint Paul Public Library (SPPL), I have the honor of engaging directly with community members, mainly in Saint Paul, but all over Minnesota. This engagement takes many forms, such as listening, assessing needs, providing credible resources, and connecting people - just to name a few. The platform on which engagement takes place also has many forms. They include, but are not limited to - conducting outreach/tabling events, hosting culturally specific celebrations, events, and activities, offering use of library spaces, and collaborating with other people groups for solidarity in community work.
How do you see your work making a difference in the community?
It has been my goal to address and help shift the mindset of African Americans from accepting the barriers set up by systems that prevent access to knowledge and information. This shift would be to a mindset that is not only aware of the freedom to learn and expand, but also to command the respect deserved from the processes by which that learning is gained.
Simultaneously, I feel compelled to challenge traditional library thinkers, to actively support the removal of barriers to access to knowledge and information for African Americans. This active support could look like, for example, intentionally working with African Americans in the library spaces, to establish and cultivate a culture of authentic appreciation for the differences in lived experience and the processes by which knowledge and information are obtained.
Over the last few years, I have been able to build trusting relationships within the Black community and with Black-owned/run community organizations. Community members have participated in multiple events and activities that I have hosted as the first Community Specialists for African Americans, within my role at SPPL. Additionally, I have been invited back multiple times to promote library resources at community events.
One example of my work includes facilitating a free computer literacy class at Rondo Community Library, specifically for the community of African Americans. I use the Northstar Digital Literacy platform to support the learning of basic computer skills, email navigation, and internet essentials at the participantā€¯s own pace. Minnesota state-recognized certifications are available upon demonstrating proficiency in each learning module. I have witnessed participants thrive in an environment that supports their learning style.
Can you share a memorable experience, or success story that highlights the impact of library services in the communities you serve?
Participants of the computer literacy class have informed me of how much they are learning. They have expressed how liberating it is to be in an environment where they feel like they belong and are celebrated instead of tolerated. Participants shared their accomplishments with their families and friends, who encouraged them to keep attending. These classes are often the highlight of my work week.
What are some projects or initiatives you have worked on recently?
Along with coworkers from several branches, we collaborated on the Minnesota Prison Doula Project to host a Juneteenth celebration with the community. Additionally, I supervised a Right Track Youth Intern during the summer to support youth employment and professional development. Later, I supported the efforts of both V-Fest and The JK Movement by sharing library resources with the community of African Americans at these events.
