[Michlib-l] Minimizing and Addressing Implicit Bias and Microaggressions in the Library Workplace - An InfoPeople Course

[Atkin, Evette (MDE)]

Minimizing and Addressing Implicit Bias and Microaggressions in the Library Workplace - An InfoPeople Course (March 26-April 8)

Course Description: This two-week online course will utilize an assessment, discussions, readings, recorded lectures, resources and two online meeting to help you develop a better understanding of implicit bias and microaggressions. You will be able to assess your own biases and strategies to combat them. You will learn strategies to address, minimize, and overcome microaggressions. The instructor will provide resources and best practices for dealing with biases and microaggressions. While this can be a sensitive topic, you will be encouraged to ask questions, share experiences and participate in discussions with others. You will be able to immediately apply concepts learned to your own library and communities.

The cost for this online course is $150

Librarians and information professionals cannot hide from bias: a preference for (or aversion to) a person or group of people. Implicit biases are hidden assumptions and stereotypes that exist at an unconscious level. These biases impact how we react and interact with others, specifically those of difference or perceived as "other." They are often overlooked and not discussed as they are not obvious behaviors. A microaggression is a comment or action that subtly and often unconsciously or unintentionally expresses a prejudiced attitude toward a member of a marginalized group. Microaggressions occur as a result of an implicit bias.
This course offers the opportunity to learn more about implicit bias and microaggressions with reflection on the individual's own biases and awareness of microaggressions that occur in their workplace. At the end of this two-week course, learners will:

  *   Understand how implicit bias is part of everyday life
  *   Critically examine their own biases
  *   Examine the relationship between bias and microaggressions and the damage it may cause
  *   Understand the types of microaggressions
  *   Explore effective practices for demonstrating positive responses within the workplace
Awareness of our implicit biases and microaggressions, and how they can impact our peers and workplace is an important step to encouraging an inclusive work environment. This course will help learners apply strategies to minimize and overcome implicit bias and microaggressions in their library workplace.

To register or for more information visit the InfoPeople site<https://infopeople.org/civicrm/event/info?id=825&reset=1>.

Evette M. Atkin
Continuing Education Coordinator
Library of Michigan
atkine at michigan.gov<mailto:atkine at michigan.gov>
517.335.1495

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