Texas’ taxpayer-funded State Library and Archives Commission is searching for a Library Management and Equity Consultant to help public libraries “implement equitable and inclusive services.”
Although seemingly innocuous, “equity” is commonly associated with critical race theory, and activists often use the term to push for equal outcomes instead of equal opportunities.
The state agency is supposed to support “the reading, learning, and historical preservation needs of Texas and its people” by preserving archives, assisting public libraries, and helping other state agencies maintain public records. The commission also provides continuing education opportunities for library employees at all levels, including school librarians.
However, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission also has a history of promoting CRT throughout their agency and to public libraries across the state.
A job posting on the agency’s website for a Library Management and Equity Consultant position asks applicants, “Are you enthusiastic about supporting public library directors and managers as they develop their skills to implement equitable policies, programs, and services?” The position pays anywhere from $5,100 to $5,600 per month and offers up to 17 days of public holidays, including LBJ Day and Cesar Chavez Day.
The Library Management and Equity Consultant will “plan, coordinate, implement, present, and evaluate a statewide program of learning on various topics including equitable, inclusive public library management.” The consultant will also have “considerable latitude” to start new programs and suggest policy changes to public library directors, managers, and supervisors.
The state agency is also looking for applicants with experience in “EDIA,” or equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility.
This job posting is not the first time the Texas State Library and Archives Commission has advanced CRT principles.
Earlier this month, the agency promoted a professional development opportunity for librarians entitled “Cultivating Racial Equity & Inclusion: Using XR.” The workshop, hosted by the Association of Southeastern Research Libraries, encourages librarians to use virtual reality technology to advance “equity and diversity.”
Another continuing education program from the state agency entitled “The Inclusive Library – Best Practices for Serving Your LGBTQ Communities,” taught by the University of North Texas’ Pride Alliance Director, tells public librarians how they can “provide more inclusive services” to LGBT patrons.
However, this is not an isolated incident. Libraries across Texas have come under fire for promoting radical gender ideology, CRT, and sexually explicit books.
At their annual conference later this month, the American Library Association, which the Texas State Library and Archives Commission endorses, will host workshops on drag queen story hour and feature Ibram X. Kendi. Kendi, the author of “How to Be a (Young) Antiracist,” promotes the principles of CRT.
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission is a taxpayer-funded public agency overseen by the state of Texas. Led by Chair Martha Wong, all seven members of the board were appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and confirmed by the Texas Senate.
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