Little Free Library Day

It’s September!

I love Autumn, don’t you? This time of year always reminds me of change: changing seasons, colors, and wardrobes too. For some, it may be the beginning of that time we take to reflect upon our experiences, goals, and accomplishments, as the end of the year scoots a bit closer than we’d like.

For members of SCBWI, our reflections often have much to do with children—our own, those in our families, our communities, and of course—those wonderful children we create books for! With that in mind, the Equity and Inclusion Team is happy to announce an exciting community event planned for September 30^th. EVERYONE is invited to join us, but we particularly ask our Michigan SCBWI members to support us and participate.

On Saturday, September 30, 2023, we will celebrate the very first Little Free Library Day!

I’m sure you’re familiar with those unique little library stands scattered throughout our neighborhoods and communities. Some look like mailboxes, some like birdhouses, and others are over-the-top creative! What they all have in common is their purpose, which is to share the gift of books. Readers can borrow a book and return it for someone else to enjoy. Anyone can donate.

We’re asking you to join us in spreading love, literacy, and diversity! We are committed to every child being represented and seeing themselves in the books they read. Diversity truly matters.

Here’s how you can get in on the fun!

• Purchase a children’s book that features main characters who are BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) or those from another underrepresented group (or donate one of your own). Here’s a list of recommended books you can choose from: SCBWI-MI Resource List (diverse books)
• Find a Little Free Library in your community. https://littlefreelibrary.org/map/
• Take a selfie or quick video (30 seconds or less) when you drop off your donation. Have fun with it! Big smiles, happy poses, and even a little dancing would be very cool!
• Post your picture or Reel on INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, or other social media platforms. TAG us @SCBWI_michigan and the Little Free Library organization @littlefreelibrary. They are as excited as we are! Use our HASHTAGS below:

#SCBWImichigan      #SCBWI                     #diversebooksforkids #littlefreelibrary         #diversebooksmatter  #weneeddiversebooks

 

Thank you for your support! Let’s help ensure that all children can find themselves and lose themselves in the wonders of a book.

E&I Team, SCBWI-Michigan Chapter

Naomi V. Dunsen-White, Chairperson

 

Naomi V. Dunsen-White is an award-winning, independent children’s book author writes books that promote diversity, uplift self-esteem, and inspire discovery of one’s purpose. Naomi has a passion for closing the diversity gap in the children’s book industry and believes all children deserve to have books with characters who look like them and stories that positively represent a world to which they can relate. She also believes that all children have a gift within, just waiting to be discovered. It’s up to us, the adults in their lives, to help them discover it.

 

Naomi is also an editor, writing development coach, and author coach. She takes great pride in amplifying diverse voices and helping others fulfill their dreams of becoming published authors, leaving a legacy for the next generation. Understanding that the published word is a gift that lasts forever, she prepares her clients to make an impact by building a following for their books and a business from their message. From children’s books to non-fiction to memoirs, Naomi’s clients come from all walks of life, yet have one thing in common: they have found their purpose in the power of their pens.

 

Naomi serves as Vice President of LiteracyNation, Inc., a nonprofit organization and Affiliate of the American Library Association (ALA). Promoting diversity and equity in literacy, they bridge the gap between independent authors and the library community. She serves as Chairperson of the Equity and Inclusion Team for The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Michigan Chapter, is a member of the Black Caucus of the American Library Association and the Editorial Freelancer’s Association.