Working with Libraries: Community Initiated Black History Month Partnership

 

Image from Instagram: @BackusPageHouse

 

Session Title:

Working with Libraries: Community Initiated Black History Month Partnership

 

Presenter:

Shahnaz McKie (Emerging Museum Professional, Independent Project)

 

Session Description:

The session will cover the evolution of the 2015 Black History Month Exhibit, Celebrating Black History Month, presented at the Ajax Public Library. The presentation will demonstrate possibilities for creating museum space within a community hub, such as a library, while engaging the Teen Advisory Committee – an integral part of the organizational structure of the Ajax Library. This presentation will look at the strengths, challenges, considerations and recommendations for future initiatives. This collaborative initiative presents multiple layers of re-defining “museum work”. Contributions made within an intimate neighbourhood hub where visitors have an existing sense of belonging can have a great impact on, and aid in, the reintroduction of institutions to new or infrequent museum visitors.

 

Session Slides: 

Download the Presentation Slides [ PDF ]

 
Presenter Biographies:

Shahnaz Alarna McKie Emerging Museum Professional (Independent Project)

Shahnaz A. McKie is a recent honors graduate of the Centennial College, Culture and Heritage Site Management- Post Graduate Program. An avid community volunteer with a passion for learning and contributing towards diverse and accessible knowledge. Shahnaz has worked with a variety of organizations, including: Toronto Mini Maker Faire, St. Andrew's Community Garden, Rogers TV and the Ajax Public Library. Leveraging acquired skills in Operations Management and Business Analysis while working towards a designation in Supply Chain Management, Shahnaz looks forward to opportunities to personally engage and create authentic bridges between communities and institutions.