Bridge to Freedom collection debuts
On Jan. 18, Murray Library dedicated the Bridge to Freedom Collection, an assortment of children’s resources based on themes of equality, freedom, justice and reconciliation.
The collection was established through the donation of 133 children’s books from the Allen family — Vice President for Diversity Affairs Todd Allen, Acquisitions Technician Lonette Allen and their son Bryce.
The resources will be used by students in the education department for coursework and field experiences, but the space is open to everyone. The collection will continue to grow every year.
“With the establishment of the Collection, it is our hope and prayer that this space will touch those who come here, that not only will they be different, but so too will this world be different because of them and what they’ve learned here,” said Allen. “We want them to know better our shared history, so that they will be inspired to make this world a better place for all of us to live.”
—Staff report
5 books to start your own children’s library
We asked Lonette Allen which five books she’d pick for new parents starting their own library, and she chose the following based on “subjects of affirmation, resilience and hope for children of color.”
- “All Because You Matter”
- “A Child’s Introduction to African American History: The Experience, People and Events That Shaped Our Country”
- “The Fierce 44: Black Americans Who Shook Up the World”
- “We Shall Overcome”
- “M is for Melanin: A Celebration of the Black Child”
All five books can be found in Murray Library.