Description
Robert Wedgeworth will discuss his new book, Breaking Barriers: A Librarian's Story of Changing Times.
"In this compelling first-hand account, Robert Wedgeworth traces his remarkable journey-from growing up in racially intolerant times to becoming executive director of the American Library Association (ALA) and helping shape the national and international library landscape.
"With candid insights, including the untold story of what exactly happened at Columbia University, Wedgeworth offers an insider's view of pivotal moments in the histories of influential organizations such as the ALA and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA). His reflections offer fascinating insight and thoughtful perspective on the transformation of library leadership and institutions." (Bloomsbury Publishing)
Breaking Barriers will be available to purchase and the author will sign copies after the talk.
About the Speaker
Robert Wedgeworth grew up in the Black community of Kansas City, Missouri, where his parents and teachers prepared him for a world in which they could not fully participate. But they anticipated that he would. Wabash College changed his life, encouraging him to mature in the sheltered environment of an all-male college while exploring its rich academic offerings. Moving to Chicago after ten years as an emerging leader in the library world, he revitalized a troubled American Library Association (ALA) and became a trustee of the Newberry Library. ALA launched Robert into a prominent national and international career that brought him many awards and honors.
About Colloquium
Colloquium is a weekly series of talks featuring staff, fellows, and scholars who are working with the library’s vast collections. These events bring together experts from various fields to share their research on a wide range of topics, followed by an opportunity for the audience to ask questions and engage in conversation.
Colloquium is open to the public and offers a chance to explore fascinating ideas and new discoveries. No advance registration is required.