Letter to the Editor

Words are powerful tools and particularly harmful when used to marginalize others. The board and staff of the Norfolk Library were deeply disturbed when informed of racist and anti-Semitic graffiti near our facility. We condemn historic and ongoing systemic racism and bigotry in every form. The mission of the Norfolk Library is to enable learning and encourage the sharing of ideas through educational and cultural resources. In so doing, we are committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion through books and programs that support equity and justice. We stand with all our colleagues and library users who are subject to acts of bigotry. Let’s continue to work peacefully toward a just, compassionate and equitable world.

Ann Havemeyer, Ph.D.
Director, Norfolk Library