Inclusive Learning & Civic Engagement: Lessons from Helsinki and New York

Oodi Helsinki Central Library by Tuomas Uusheimo

Join Open House New York for a virtual conversation with Brian Bannon, chief librarian of New York Public Library and Tommy Laitio, executive Director of the Helsinki Department of Culture and Leisure.

Libraries are community anchors and critical pillars of civic and social infrastructure in our cities. The COVID-19 pandemic has created ripple effects for library systems, exposing gaps in equitable access to public institutions. Across the world, libraries have toggled between restrictions and re-openings, aiding recovery efforts, and serving as vital community centres for addressing the economic, health, and social impacts of the pandemic.

On August 5, examine how New York and Helsinki’s library systems are pioneering global models for inclusivity and access, and explore their philosophies of learning, access, and civic engagement.

Inclusive Learning & Civic Engagement: Lessons from Helsinki and New York
Thursday, August 5, 4-5 pm UTC
Online and free. Register to receive link to join.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library by Max Touhey