Each week, we reflect on the top articles, blog posts, tweets, news, thoughts, and other tidbits we’ve found interesting or useful. Check out what our writers have spotted this week in library news. Enjoy!

Chloe

After hearing about Harvey, Irma, and Maria devastating Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, Mexico, Texas, Florida, and countless other areas, I knew I needed to help in some way. Though I strongly urge you to donate to trustworthy organizations (or, better yet, grassroots organizations) who are helping people get water, shelter, and medical attention, I also urge you to look at ways to help specifically help library disaster relief. After Hurricane Katrina, the ALA started Libraries Build Communities, which gave relief and assistance to affected libraries in New Orleans. My hope is that this kind of support will reoccur in the wake of the recent natural disasters. To everyone affected by the hurricanes: we’re thinking about you, and you’re in our hearts.

Ian

Earlier this week, Atlas Obscura profiled the Radical Reference Collective, an organization of library and information workers dedicated to social justice and equity. According to their website, Radical Reference is a non-hierarchical, all volunteer organization committed to free culture, privacy rights, and promoting agency and equity for all information workers. Radical Reference volunteers answer questions from activists and independent journalists. They began in 2004 by providing reference services at demonstrations, and having since become involved in a number of other activities. Those interested in becoming involved should email at info@radicalreference.info.

Cover photo from Alan Wu on Flickr Commons. Changes were made in adapting this image.  Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.