Imperatives for Growth: Libraries as Catalysts for Inclusive Employment, Skills and Prosperity

Join us to explore how libraries are driving progress toward equitable economic opportunities and contributing to the global effort for decent work and inclusive growth.

This event will take place online and in person at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library on the 7th Floor.

Presented by the American Library Association, this event will highlight the essential role libraries play in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Growth and Economic Growth) by fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth. This SDG is in focus at the 2025 High-Level Political Forum. By centering on workforce development, skills training, and economic inclusion, this session will showcase how libraries unlock growth in communities by providing access to critical resources, digital literacy programs, and job readiness initiatives. Through this, they serve as a gateway to opportunity, ensuring that everyone—regardless of background or socioeconomic status—has the tools to succeed in today’s economy.

Featured speakers will include (clockwise from top left above) Lisa R. Varga, Associate Executive Director, Public Policy and Advocacy, American Library Association; Diana Price, Central Library Manager, Alexandria Library; Dr. Brandy McNeil, PLA President & Deputy Director for the NY Public Library; Melissa Jacobs, Director of Library Services, NYC Department of Education; Robin Kear, Liaison Librarian and University Senate President, University of Pittsburgh; with moderator Loida Garcia-Febo, Chair ALA IRC UN SDGs Subcommittee and International Library Consultant.

To join the event in person | Doors will open 30 minutes before the program begins. For free events, we generally overbook to ensure a full house. Priority will be given to those who have registered in advance, but registration does not guarantee admission. All registered seats are released shortly before start time, and seats may become available at that time. A standby line will form 30 minutes before the program.

To join the event online | Whether you're attending in person on online, you must register with your email address.The Zoom link will be sent to you by email approximately one day before the event. You will need a device with audio and/or video and an internet/cellular connection to join.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTES

In-Person

• Assistive listening devices and/or hearing loops are available at the venue.


• You can request a free ASL (American Sign Language) interpretation or CART (Communication Access Real-Time Translation) captioning service by emailing your request at least two weeks in advance of the event: email accessibility@nypl.org or use this Gmail template.


• This venue is fully accessible to wheelchairs.

Webinar

• Captions and a transcript will be provided.


• You can request a free ASL (American Sign Language) interpretation by emailing your request at least two weeks in advance of the event: email accessibility@nypl.org or use this Gmail templateaccessibility@nypl.org or use this Gmail template.

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Please submit all press inquiries to Connor Goodwin at least 48 hours before the event: email connorgoodwin@nypl.org.

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All programs are subject to change or cancellation. All programs are subject to recording and photography.