SRRT (Social Responsibilities Round Table)

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last person joined: 21 hours ago 

The Social Responsibilities Round Table works to make ALA more democratic and to establish progressive priorities not only for the Association, but also for the entire profession. Concern for human and economic rights was an important element in the founding of SRRT and remains an urgent concern today. SRRT believes that libraries and librarians must recognize and help solve social problems and inequities in order to carry out their mandate to work for the common good and bolster democracy.

Learn more about SRRT on the ALA website.

  • 1.  Proposed resolution

    Posted Jun 16, 2023 09:19 PM
    If SRRT hasn't already tried to do so,  I propose a possible resolution to be brought from SRRT to Council which is "AGAINST THE 'NEW COLD WAR ". I feel it would be wonderful to have ALA, the voice of American libraries and librarians,  on the side of peace as we witness the development of  threatening globalized,  escalating conflicts especially with respect to Russia and China. This text is only a working model: I would welcome reworking which amplified or clarified its message and made it possibly more "passable" by Council.
    Mark Rosenzweig

    RESOLUTION AGAINST A "New Cold War" // 


    1. Whereas the ALA should recognize the potential dangers of a "New Cold War" and believes that any conflict between major powers could have catastrophic consequences for the global community.
    2. whereas the ALA should advocate for policies that promote peace and cooperation between nations, such as increased diplomatic engagement, arms control agreements, and the promotion of free cross-cultural exchange and understanding.
    3. whereas the ALA should oppose policies that contribute to the escalation of tensions between nations, such as sanctions and other forms of economic coercion, military interventions, and the demonization of other countries or cultures.
    4. whereas, the ALA believes that libraries and cultural institutions have an important role to play in promoting peace and understanding between nations, and calls for increased support for international cultural exchange programs and initiatives that promote cross-cultural understanding.
    5. The ALA urges the U.S. government and other major powers to prioritize diplomacy and cooperation in their foreign policies, and to work towards a more peaceful and equitable global community.

    In addition to issuing a statement, the ALA could also consider partnering with other organizations that are working towards similar goals, such as peace and disarmament groups, human rights organizations, and cultural exchange programs. The ALA could also prioritize resources and programs that promote cross-cultural understanding and international cooperation within the library profession.



  • 2.  RE: Proposed resolution

    Posted Jun 16, 2023 10:41 PM
    I think this is worth considering. What do others think?

    - Mark

    Mark Hudson
    Librarian (retired)
    Monroeville, PA

    "We should measure the prosperity of a nation not by the number of millionaires but by the absence of poverty, the prevalence of health, the efficiency of public schools, and the number of people who can and do read worthwhile books." - W. E. B. Du Bois






  • 3.  RE: Proposed resolution

    Posted Jun 17, 2023 07:17 AM

    Is number 5 the resolved clause? "Be it resolved that the ALA urges..." 



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    April Sheppard
    Assistant Library Director
    Arkansas State University
    She/They/Hers/Theirs
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