Statement from Library’s Executive Director
A statement from Albany Public Library Executive Director Scott C. Jarzombek:
Our democracy has been challenged in a way it has never been before. As scary as the world is right now, there is light at the end of this tunnel. And, there is work that Albany Public Library can do to help get our community there.
In the last four years, we have seen how misinformation can be a powerful tool to drive a divide in this country. Managing information is at the core of what libraries do. It would be easy to become discouraged, but I feel a renewed sense of responsibility. The work we do is more important than ever before.
Yesterday’s events are interconnected with what we have seen transpiring for the last year. As an organization, Albany Public Library is reaffirming our commitment to social justice. We are clearly stating that Black lives matter. We are standing up for democracy, using our organization to foster real change in our society.
As the leader of Albany Public Library, I am deeply committed to this work. I am proud to empower my staff to forge ahead with providing diverse, equitable, inclusive, and factual, resources to the people of Albany.
Stephanie Simon
Stephanie Simon is manager of APL's Communication and Creative Services Department, which provides content and information for the library's website, social media, publications, videos, podcasts, and other outlets. Stephanie also manages APL's public relations and marketing efforts.