ESRT: Ethnic Services Roundtable

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this Round Table is to provide a forum for the exchange of information within the following objectives:

  • to share information on ethnic services through a cooperative network,
  • to develop and promote ethnic collections,
  • to design services for ethnic groups, and
  • to provide up-to-date funding information available from public and private sources in support of ethnic programs.

What We Do

  • Presents workshops and programs at NYLA Annual Conferences.
  • Formulates and recommends policy statements for NYLA on relevant issues.
  • Disseminates information on ethnic services through our newsletter (included in your dues) and website.
  • Presents awards for outstanding contributions to multicultural library services.
  • Publishes lists to aid librarians in materials selection.
  • Cooperates with other NYLA units on joint ventures.
  • Maintains liaisons with the American Library Association's Ethnic and Multicultural Information Exchange Round Table (EMIERT) and other groups with similar interests.
 
Our Board
  
 
Our Awards
  
 
Resources
  

Events

NYLA-ESRT's 5th Annual Combating Racism Series on March 6, 2026 is a one day event for libraries and library staff to learn, share, and discuss the issues communities are facing with racism.
This full-day convening brings together librarians, educators, artists, and community advocates to explore the library’s role as a space for cultural connection, racial justice, creative expression, and community care. Through panels, workshops, and storytelling, presenters will highlight how libraries function as sites of Black feminist praxis, antiracist family engagement, arts advocacy, and disruption of systemic inequities. The day centers justice, joy, and lived experience while offering practical models participants can adapt within their own institutions and communities.

This event will be held in-person at Brooklyn Public Library's Central Branch-Dr. S. Stevan Dweck Cultural Center on Friday March 6, 2026 from 9:30am-4:15pm.
Address: 10 Grand Army Plz Lower Level, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Registration
Registration is required and free of charge.
Please note that this event does not confer Continuing Education credits.
Any questions? Ask us at [email protected]