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Black Lives Matter, Black Stories Matter

Kansas City Public Library Statement on Local, National Protests and Addressing Racial Injustice

Last modified:

Friday, June 5, 2020

Our city and nation are hurting in the wake of the senseless, horrifying death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. The Kansas City Public Library stands in full support of the many across our country — including our staff and their families and others in our community — who have marched in protest and in profound, insistent hope for the future. We decry the longstanding racial inequities and injustice at the root of their unrest. We need more than ever to understand the challenges of a diverse America, allowing us to define and develop effective change when and wherever it is necessary.

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New Director John Herron Plots Library’s Course: ‘Engine for Social Change, Social Uplift’

Last modified:

Sunday, July 5, 2020

All things being equal, John Herron says he’d prefer to assume leadership of the Kansas City Public Library in more conventional times. Instead, he’s wearing a mask and preparing to steer the 147-year-old institution through the epochal challenge of a pandemic. “So much is unknown,” Herron says. “But by the same token, the unknown shouldn’t have to be crippling. It creates these moments of possibility." Herron takes over as the Library’s new director on Monday, July 6, 2020. Learn more about his move to the Library and his vision for its future.

Hail to the King, Baby - Happy Henry Perry Day

Last modified:

Friday, July 3, 2020

Henry Perry, the man who first assumed the title of Barbecue King of Kansas City was born on March 16, 1874, in Shelby County, Tennessee. By 1908, he was in Kansas City selling smoked meats to downtown workers from a stand in the Garment District, eventually relocating to the east side at 17th and Lydia before landing at his famed 19th and Highland location. With Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas making July 3 Henry Perry Day in Kansas City, we take a moment to explore Henry Perry’s life and career through an article printed in the February 26, 1932, edition of The Call.

July 2020 CYS Zine

Last modified:

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

The July 2020 CYS Zine is out! This 16-page monthly mini magazine highlights what's new and notable in the children's department of the Central Library.