MCL Blogs

Photo of a family reading a book together
Did you know the best things you can do to help your child get ready to learn to read also happen to be some of the easiest, cheapest, and most fun things, too? They are! 

From the time kids are born, their brains are learning all the things they need to know so eventually they can put letters together into words and words into sentences. Singing songs and hearing and talking about books and stories help kids learn vocabulary and the rhythm and sounds of a language. Smooshing play dough, cutting paper with scissors, and digging in sandboxes, dirt, or piles of rice help make fingers and hands strong to hold a crayon, pencil, or pen later on when they are learning to write. Making up rules to their own games or creating their own stories helps them with social skills and learning about beginnings, middles, and ends. 

Reading, talking, singing, writing, and playing are all things you can do at home without expensive supplies; just sing and dance around to a favorite song or pick up a book, start reading, and ask questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” to get the early literacy learning started!

If this sounds like the kind of fun learning your family loves, the library has a lot of resources to help!

  • Zoom Bags (not to be confused with the online meetings!) are easy-to-grab, age-based bags in Spanish and English filled with books and simple activity suggestions on kid-friendly topics. You can place those on hold and pick them up at your local library! 
  • Storytime staff have videos of books, songs, flannelboard stories, and activities that you can enjoy and sing-along with on the library YouTube. You can even favorite and make playlists of the ones your family really enjoys! 
  • There are booklists created on a variety of topics to help you find good read-aloud books, including these age-based lists, and you can always get suggestions just for you and your family with a quick email to My Librarian - Tasha, Amy, Kate, Sherita, and Diana all love picture books!

This article was written for our Family Newsletter, available in English and Spanish. Please sign up here, and you can email us at learning@multcolib.org with any questions.

Image of a family at home
Multnomah County is home to an increasing number of young dual language learners, most of whom will grow up to become bilingual or multilingual members of our community.  Whether they are learning a second language from their families, or as part of a dual language immersion program, the library is here to help.    

According to research, the language learning process begins before we are born, at around 33 weeks into pregnancy when the auditory system develops.  Also, the younger we are, the faster we can learn a new language.  That means the fastest language learners are babies!  For more about bilingual babies, check out Naja Ferjan Ramirez’ fascinating TED Talk “Creating Bilingual Minds.” 

Families typically approach raising dual language learners in one of two ways:  

  • Some families prioritize one language at home– usually the parent or caregiver’s first language – while using the other language out in the community.  
  • Other families use two (or more) languages from the start and create opportunities for kids to experience both languages.  Playfully mixing languages is a part of becoming bilingual.  

 

Families can support their kids’ language skills by finding enjoyable ways for them to interact with both languages via conversations, games, music, media, cultural events, and, of course, books!  For bilingual fun in English and Spanish, check out our new booklist for titles that include words and text both languages (below), or check out our Welcome to Reading and Bienvenidos a la Lectura titles to support beginning readers.     

This article was written for our Family Newsletter, available in English and Spanish. Please sign up here and you can email us at learning@multcolib.org with any questions.

As a parent of three children with dyslexia, I have faced many of the challenges common to caregivers of a youth with dyslexia. 

One of the biggest challenges I faced was navigating school special education to provide access to a free education appropriate to my students’ learning style. All students have a right to Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) through Federal Law.  My kids were not learning how to read in the classroom, and the school didn’t seem to be doing anything. Oregon legislation has changed since my kids first started school, and schools are required to do more to address dyslexia. But is it enough? You may have to advocate for the youth in your life. 

Things to consider...

Mental health:

  • Research has shown that individuals with learning disabilities: 
    • may experience increased levels of anxiety.  
    • may be at greater risk for depression.  
    • experience higher levels of loneliness. 
    • may have a lower self-concept (self-esteem).  
    • are at greater risk for substance abuse. 
    • may be at greater risk for juvenile delinquency.
  • 20 percent of children with dyslexia also suffer from depression and another 20 percent suffer from an anxiety disorder.

Incarceration Rates 

  • Percent of adults in custody with dyslexia: 48% 
  • Percent of adolescents with learning disabilities that will be arrested three to five years out of high school: 31%

These facts are alarming. But there is good news … intervention helps! When modern, research based instruction is put into place in grades K-2, the reading disability rate drops.

Knowing where to go or who to talk to get an assessment for dyslexia can be difficult. Many states have passed legislation to identify dyslexia in children early on.  If you aren’t in school or you feel that your school is missing something, check out our Uncovering Dyslexia blog post, which points to places in Multnomah County who will privately assess for dyslexia. 

Resources for families affected by dyslexia 

Looking for books to share with your family? Here are some fiction books for kids and teens featuring characters with dyslexia, and here are some nonfiction books on dyslexia written for kids. For more information on dyslexia, including some book recommendations for caregivers, please see our previous post on Uncovering Dyslexia.


This article was written for our Family Newsletter, available in English and Spanish. Please sign up here and you can email us at learning@multcolib.org with any questions.

a red apple on top of three textbooks on a desk with grey background
Parent-teacher conferences can make students and their grownups feel anxious, but it helps when you feel prepared. Like all good conversations, parent-teacher conferences are best when everyone involved talks and listens. This meeting is the time for you to find out about your student's progress in school and ask their teacher to show you information about their attendance, grades and test results. And to find out if your student is meeting school expectations and academic standards. This is also time for the teacher to find out how your student is at home. When you tell the teacher about your student's abilities, interests, needs, and dreams, the teacher can help them more. 

Here are some ideas to help you prepare for your next parent-teacher conference.

Main points for a successful meeting

  • Keep the emphasis on learning. 
  • Review samples of your student's work.
  • Listen carefully and take notes.
  • Ask questions.
  • Respect the conversation, stay calm.
  • Follow up if an action was decided upon.

Remember, your student absolutely deserves to receive the attention, commitment and support they need to be successful in school. And the parent-teacher conference is one valuable way you can ensure this is happening.  

Before the meeting

  • If you cannot attend the meeting on the day and time that it's scheduled, inform the teacher and request to reschedule.
  • Talk to your student about how they feel at school and how they think school is going.
  • Ask your student to share with you what they want to accomplish this school year.
  • If possible, set some learning goals together that you can share with their teacher.
  • Review homework, tests and grades (if you have them).
  • You will likely receive both positive feedback on your student's progress and feedback on areas that need improvement. Be prepared to ask questions about ways you and the teacher can help your student with some of their challenges.
  • If needed, request an interpreter beforehand; your child should not act as interpreter during the meeting.
  • Make a list of questions based on how your student is doing at school (see below for some sample questions).
  • If possible, send a note to the teacher with your questions ahead of time so they can prepare as well.

During the meeting

  • Thank the teacher for meeting with you.    
  • Ask about your student's academic development. 
  • Ask for evaluations and samples of your student's work.
  • Ask for ideas on how to help your student at home.
  • Ask for explanations of anything you do not understand.
  • Ask the teacher how they will contribute to your student's success.
  • Respectfully discuss differences of opinion.
  • Pay attention to the teacher’s comments and take notes on what is said and planned.
  • In many cases we do not have the precise words to respond to the teacher’s comments in the moment. It is fine to "sleep on it" or get a second opinion before making decisions/agreements.
  • Focus your comments on academics. If your student engages in behaviors that are affecting their learning or achievement, ask the teacher for a different meeting to discuss.
  • Ask that the school notify you as soon as possible about any inappropriate behaviors. It is important to your student's future that you take action immediately.
  • Likewise, ask the teacher not to wait until the parent-teacher conference to tell you about your student's performance.

After the meeting

  • Reflect on what topics were reviewed and what topics need a follow-up.
  • Make a plan to follow up on what you and the teacher agreed upon to help your student be successful in class.
  • Set a date to meet with the teacher again and keep in touch with the teacher.
  • Talk with your student.
  • Start working on an action plan or family agreement.
  • Learn more about the education system, the school curriculum, and the tests your student must take (the library can help!).

Possible questions for parent-teacher conferences
1. How is my student doing in your class? What are their grades?
2. Is my student attending a special class, program or group? Why? What is the purpose of having my student there?
3. Is my student on grade level for reading? What about math, science and writing? Do you have any recommendations for my student to improve their learning? (Note: If tutoring is mentioned, please check out our post on free tutoring resources.)
4. What do you suggest we do if we are at home and my student gets “stuck” on homework?
5. What are the most important and complex (content-related) ideas my student needs to understand by the end of the year? 
6. How do you measure academic progress?
7. Has my student failed to return any homework or project?
8. Does my student participate and express their opinions in class?
9. Overall, do you have any concerns about my student's academic progress?
10. What are the best school or district resources that we should consider using as a family to support our student in the classroom?
11. What can I do to help you and my student?
12. What is the best way for me to reach you?

This article was written for our Family Newsletter, available in English and Spanish. Please sign up here and you can email us at learning@multcolib.org with any questions.

Para muchas personas, conocer a bibliotecarios fuera de la biblioteca es su primera experiencia con la Biblioteca del Condado de Multnomah. La biblioteca brinda servicios creados específicamente para las comunidades que hablan español, ruso, vietnamita y chino. El personal de la biblioteca dedicado a estos idiomas y culturas sale a la comunidad y se reúne con personas de la tercera edad, niños que están a punto de comenzar la escuela y familias en sus hogares.

El equipo bilingüe de servicios en español colabora con escuelas y organizaciones sin fines de lucro para conectarse con los usuarios dentro y fuera de la biblioteca.

En eventos comunitarios grandes, el personal bilingüe de la biblioteca pone una mesa con actividades, libros gratis y otros recursos. El personal ofrece juegos y comparte información sobre cómo la biblioteca puede ser un lugar divertido para toda la familia.

Jeannine González, bibliotecaria juvenil bilingüe, ha coordinado eventos en escuelas, parques y albergues familiares.

Librarian holding a book outside

Jeannine dice que "el trabajo en los albergues familiares ha sido una oportunidad para interactuar y conectarse con familias que se encuentran en un momento de sus vidas en el que no pueden visitar una biblioteca o los servicios de la biblioteca pública son completamente nuevos para ellos como lo es el caso de muchas familias inmigrantes.”

En cada visita, el personal de la biblioteca trae libros gratis y actividades. "Las actividades brindan una oportunidad para que las familias visiten nuestra mesa y aprendan sobre los servicios de la biblioteca. Cuando la biblioteca regala libros, eso también ayuda a las familias a coleccionar sus propios libros,” dice Jeannine.

La bibliotecaria juvenil bilingüe Pati Morán disfruta conectarse con niños y sus padres en eventos comunitarios. A través del programa Transición Temprana al Kínder (Early Kindergarten Transition), Pati se conecta con los padres que tienen hijos que van a ingresar al kínder. El programa presenta recursos a los padres sobre cómo apoyar a sus niños mientras aprenden a leer.

"A veces, en estos programas también conectamos a los padres con recursos para obtener vivienda y comida o con ayuda técnica como de la computadora,” dice Pati.

Pati también ha conectado a los padres con Alonso Meléndez, el coordinador de inclusión y equidad digital bilingüe de la biblioteca. Alonso desarrolla clases de tecnología para adultos.

"Las clases de computación que doy para adultos son una gran oportunidad para brindar apoyo de una manera cultural y en su propio idioma lo cual ayuda para que se sientan cómodos,” dice Alonso.

Los estudiantes en las clases de Alonso aprenden muchas cosas sobre tecnología. Aprenden cómo encender una computadora y usar un teclado, enviar correos electrónicos, navegar por el Internet y usar Zoom.

En colaboración con El Programa Hispano, la asistente bibliotecaria bilingüe, Laura Bradshaw, trabaja con personas de la tercera edad y se reúne con ellos a través de Zoom.

"Las personas de la tercera edad son una de las poblaciones más vulnerables que presentan una variedad de necesidades, como el acceso a la atención médica, la seguridad económica y las barreras culturales y de idioma, entre otras. Nuestros ancianos experimentan aislamiento y reunirse como grupo en El Programa Hispano ayuda para que socialicen y se mantengan activos,” dice Laura.

A través de este programa virtual, Laura ofrece cuentos, conversaciones y recursos para personas mayores.

"Me encanta escuchar las historias personales de los ancianos, su sentido del humor es maravilloso y siempre están agradecidos,” dice Laura.

¡El equipo de español realiza entre diez o más eventos en la comunidad cada mes! Y no son el único grupo bilingüe que organiza este tipo de evento. Los equipos de la biblioteca también están presentes y brindan servicios en eventos de las comunidades china, vietnamita, rusa y más. Para conectarse con servicios bilingües en la Biblioteca del Condado de Multnomah, llame al 503.988.5123.

Lucky Day titles are back at all library locations. Lucky Day books are highly anticipated books, often new releases or bestsellers, that you usually have to wait for because they are so popular. So if you’ve been waiting for a particular book, today might be your lucky day!

Two staff members inside the library. One is holding two books, and the other is holding a Lucky Day sign.

“There is a mystery to Lucky Day. You don't know what you're going to find, and it's serendipitous when you find what you hoped for. So if you saw a book on the bestseller list it might be here for you to check out,” says Kady Ferris, librarian. “The idea is that these are books you can’t find on the shelf right now — instead of waiting on hold for months, it’s your lucky day!”

The library adds about 15 new titles to the Lucky Day collection each week, so you can expect to see new titles every time you visit. Come check it out. 

New titles include: It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover, Finding Me by Viola Davis, An Immense World by Ed Yong, Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng, and Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

In 2021 the library formed an Indigenous team to provide better representation of Indigenous people in the library. The Indigenous team strives to offer multi-generational programs and better access to resources. They also create displays that value elders, youth, storytelling, tradition and activism.

Six members of the Indigenous team inside a library standing with each other smiling

Indigenous Outreach Specialist Eva Red Bird shares that  “The United States has over 570 federally recognized tribes and Portland has the ninth largest urban Native population in the country. Portland was once a federal relocation site and many Native people also moved here during WWII to work in what was once Vanport (like my family).”

Team members represent tribes from different parts of the world. You can find Indigenous team members at Central Library and mid county library locations. 

“I want the library to feel like a community center and a space where everyone is welcomed. Historically, libraries were places where people might have felt intimidated about coming to. I think it's a beautiful thing for our Native community to come into branches and see Indigenous staff who are approachable and to see materials on the shelves that reflect our cultures in a positive way,” shares Eva.

The library’s Indigenous team spends time in library locations and out in the community at events.

“We are prioritizing outreach efforts at Native community events to learn more about how the library can meet people's interests and needs,” shares Ekatrina Sotomayor, Indigenous Program Specialist with the library’s School Corps Division. If you see us at an event, please come talk to us about what is possible!” 

To mark Native American Heritage Month this year, the team will highlight the strength of Native Nations. Displays will celebrate the legacies and ongoing contributions of Indigenous Peoples in the Americas. 

To learn more about the diverse history of American Indian and Alaskan Native Peoples, check out Tribal Nations & the United States: An Introduction from the National Congress of American Indians. American Indian and Alaska Native Culture Card also provides an overview of topics that are important to many Indigenous communities in the U.S., such as cultural customs, spirituality and regional differences.  

Check out these books and resources to learn more about diverse Indigenous authors, cultures, history and lived experience: 

During Native American Heritage Month, Libby and Overdrive will feature three select titles with no holds and unlimited checkouts:  

Learn more on the library's website.

While your library is closed for renovations, you can pick up your holds at another location. Holds at closed locations will be paused, so they won't fill for pick up but will keep moving up the waitlist. To change the pick-up location to an open library near you, go to your My MCL account or contact the library.

Two staff members inside the library holding a sign that says "holds"

How to change your hold pick-up location:

  • Log into your My MCL account.
  • In the top right corner, click the down arrow next to your user name.
  • Click on My Settings.
  • Under Account Preferences, click on Holds and Pick up Location.
  • Under First, click the down arrow in the box and choose another hold pick-up library.
  • Click on the Save Changes button.

How to resume a hold:

  • Log into your My MCL account.
  • Click On Hold.
  • Click on the red Resume Hold button for each hold you want to activate.

Holgate Library will be closed starting December 5, 2022, and Midland Library will be closed starting December 23, 2022.

There is information about Holgate Library and Midland Library, and other building projects, on the library’s website.

The library is adding a new selection of Ukrainian materials to its collection! The library has had a Ukrainian e-book and audiobook collection for several years, and there is a collection of over 400 e-materials. This new selection of Ukrainian materials expands the collection, giving patrons an opportunity to check out physical books too.

The new collection includes over 350 physical books, and more will be added each year. Selections include adult and children’s books in fiction, nonfiction and other genres.

Ukrainian selector Angela, holding two Ukrainian books in the library

“After years of working towards building this collection in our library, I'm thrilled about the opportunity to offer Ukrainian language materials to our Ukrainian community,” says Angela Tveretinova, Ukrainian materials selector. 

The Ukrainian collection will be part of the World Language Collection at the library. You can find the Ukrainian collection at Central Library in both the adult and children’s sections. Browse booklists for adult books and children’s books from the library website and have books delivered to your local library for pick up. 

This combined e-collection and physical book collection means that there are more than 700 Ukrainian materials available at the library. The library is excited to share these books, so make sure to place your hold today!

For many people, meeting library staff outside of a branch is their first experience with Multnomah County Library. Through community outreach events, library staff members significantly impact people who have never been to a library or cannot visit a library location. 

The library provides services specifically created for Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, Black and Indigenous communities. These services are provided by staff who identify as part of those communities. Dedicated staff from the library's six language and culture groups step outside library branches and meet with seniors in living facilities, children about to start school, soon-to-be first-time parents, and families in group homes, among many others. 

The Spanish language team collaborates with schools, community partners and nonprofits to connect with patrons in and out of the library. 

At large events, Spanish library staff will set up a table with activities, free books and resources. Staff enjoy offering games like Lotería and sharing information about how the library is a fun place for the whole family.

Jeannine González, bilingual Spanish youth librarian

Jeannine Gonzalez, bilingual Spanish youth librarian, has coordinated outreach events in schools, childcare centers, parks and family shelters. 

Jeannine says that "the outreach work at family shelters has been an opportunity to interact and connect with families who are in a time in their lives where they can't make it into the library, or public library services are completely new to them as is the case with many immigrant families."

Library staff bring books, giveaways and a craft activity each visit. "The activity portion provides a reason for families to hang out for a bit, and if they are interested in learning about library services, it's an excellent opportunity. Giving away books also helps families build their own little libraries and give ownership to children over something that is only theirs," says Jeannine.

Bilingual Spanish Youth Librarian Pati Morán enjoys connecting with young children and their parents at smaller community events. Through the Early Kindergarten Transition (EKT) program, she connects with parents whose children will be entering kindergarten. The program encourages early literacy and presents resources to parents on how to best support children in learning how to read. 

"Sometimes in these programs, we also connect parents with resources like housing, food and computer help," says Pati.

Pati is also able to connect parents with Alonso Melendez, the library’s bilingual Spanish digital equity and inclusion coordinator. Alonso develops digital skills classes and runs the tech lending program. 

"The computer classes I do with adult learners are a great opportunity to provide community members with the support in a culturally and linguistically responsive way that they can feel comfortable with," says Alonso.

Students in Alonso's classes learn a wide range of computer skills, from basics like turning a computer on and typing, to sending emails, browsing the internet, and using Zoom. 

In collaboration with El Programa Hispano, Bilingual Spanish Library Assistant Laura Bradshaw works with senior citizens and meets with them via Zoom.

"Latino elders are one of the most vulnerable populations that present a variety of needs such as access to health care, economic security, and cultural and language barriers, among others. Our elders experience isolation, and gathering as a group at El Programa Hispano helps them to socialize and keep active," says Laura.

Through this virtual program, Laura provides storytimes, conversations and resources for seniors. 

"I love to hear the elders' personal stories, their sense of humor is wonderful, and they are always grateful," says Laura.

The Spanish team does an average of ten or more outreach events each month at different community locations, and they are not the only language group to do this type of work. Library teams are also present and providing services at specific Chinese, Vietnamese, Russian, Black and Indigenous community events. For help connecting with specific language or cultural services at the library, call 503.988.5123. 

Lecia Michelle is the author of The White Allies Handbook: 4 Weeks to Join the Racial Justice Fight for Black Women. She is a librarian by trade with experience at universities and public libraries. 

Author Lecia Michelle

Q: What is your background as an author?

LM: This is my very first book. I have been a librarian for a really long time, so of course, I enjoy libraries, books and learning. I also started a Facebook group back in 2016 that focused on racial justice. We do training in the Facebook group for white women to be allies. Along with this, I started writing a ton of articles about racial justice. So all of that kind of prepared me to write this book, and what I noticed was missing was giving people steps to be an ally. So I decided to write a book that focuses on that part.

Q: How did you develop the four-week program for becoming an ally?

LM: There is too much to do in one week, so this makes it less overwhelming for people who are trying to work on being an ally. I wanted to make sure that each week we built on the previous week. I think this made it more manageable. I also wrote it in a way that keeps you constantly thinking about your own progress, where you are falling short, and also keeps you motivated. 

Q: What are the key tools needed for a person to make a difference in the racial justice fight?

LM: If you are a white person wanting to be effective in racial justice work, you must constantly be doing work on yourself. You have to be aware of how you're contributing to the problem or how you have contributed to the problem, and you have to be able to fix it. It’s very daunting to have to confront people who you consider friends or family, but you have to because those are the people that you have the most influence over. So those are the ones that you may need to have a conversation with about race.

Q: If you could give people one piece of advice on how to make a difference in racial justice or what the next step is to take, what would it be?

LM: Keep working toward the goal of antiracism work. So if you are getting tired, frustrated or overwhelmed, have an accountability partner you can talk to about that, but you have to keep going. I’ve met so many people who start out and then they get burnt out. Well, you know, it’s very privileged to say I’m tired. I don't want to do this anymore. But I don’t get to step away from Blackness. It is who I am. So I just say, understand that when you say you will do ally work and antiracism work, that my expectation is that it is a lifelong commitment and should be a lifelong commitment. 

Q: Your program 7 Questions About Allyship You Were Afraid to Ask, is coming up on Thursday, October 20. What do you hope people get out of this experience?

LM: I hope they are less afraid of either starting to be an ally or really stepping up their ally game. I hope I can make them feel more comfortable to be an ally and speak up and understand that part of your ally journey is going to be making mistakes and speaking up. 

Check out author Lecia Michelle’s book recommendations!

"Mara Bazua, Administradora de la Biblioteca de Holgate

Cuando Mara Bazua llegó a los Estados Unidos de Guadalajara, México, ella no tenía una computadora. Fue a principios de la década de 2000, cuando los teléfonos celulares eran nuevos, las redes sociales recién estaban empezando y las aplicaciones de empleo acababan de pasar de formularios en papel a formularios en línea.

Mara visitaba la biblioteca y usaba las computadoras públicas para revisar sus redes sociales como una forma de mantenerse conectada con su familia y amigos.

“Durante mucho tiempo no pedí una tarjeta de la biblioteca porque no sabía que era gratis. Iba a la biblioteca y solo pedía un pase para usar la computadora,” dice Mara.

“Me sentaba entre los estantes y miraba los libros y los ponía de vuelta en su lugar. Sabía exactamente dónde iba cada libro.”

Durante una visita, una bibliotecaria le dijo a Mara que podía pedir prestados los libros para llevar a casa con una tarjeta de la biblioteca gratuita. Mara se sorprendió de que la biblioteca aquí fuera gratis, y con una gran sonrisa le dijo a la bibliotecaria que quería obtener una tarjeta de la biblioteca. Inmediatamente la bibliotecaria ayudó a Mara a obtener su tarjeta de la biblioteca y Mara estaba muy feliz de que ahora se podía llevar los libros a casa. 

“En México existe ese concepto pero sólo puedes llevarte ciertos libros dependiendo de tu membresía. Estaba contando mi dinero. Pensé que era como pagar el alquiler. Estás alquilando un libro pero tienes que pagarlo. Fue increíble que me prestaran libros y no tuviera que pagar”, dice Mara.

Mara conocía los estantes de la biblioteca como la palma de su mano y, a veces, incluso ayudaba a la gente en la biblioteca sin ella trabajar ahí. Los bibliotecarios notaron el interés de Mara en los libros y su amor por la biblioteca, así que un día le preguntaron: "¿Por qué no trabajas en la biblioteca?"

Mara comenzó a trabajar en bibliotecas en 2009 y en 2011 visitó la Biblioteca de Holgate por primera vez. A principios de 2017, Mara comenzó a trabajar para la Biblioteca del Condado de Multnomah en la Biblioteca de North Portland. Después de siete meses, Mara comenzó a trabajar a tiempo completo en la Biblioteca de Gresham.

“Siempre me gustó leer y sabía mucho sobre los libros. Me sentía como un pez en agua, trabajando en un empleo que me gusta, en el que soy bienvenida y donde se valora mi educación,” dice Mara.

En el 2020, Mara se convirtió en la supervisora ​​de operaciones y de servicios juveniles (Youth Services Outreach and Operations Supervisor).

“Es increíble y mágico como todo ha cambiado tan rápido, y todo comenzó simplemente yendo a la biblioteca, igual que la gente de nuestra comunidad, para sacar fotocopias, imprimir o usar las computadoras. Nunca imaginé cuántos servicios ofrece la biblioteca. Les daba mi identificación a las bibliotecarias para obtener un pase para usar las computadoras, y poco a poco el personal me hizo sentir bienvenida. Me pregunté —por qué son tan amables conmigo… pero luego aprendí que las bibliotecas son así con todas las personas. Quieren que las personas se sientan bienvenidas,” dice Mara.

En 2021, Mara se convirtió en la Administradora de la Biblioteca de Holgate, donde supervisa las operaciones diarias de la biblioteca y los empleados.

“Cada día es una nueva aventura y experiencia de aprendizaje. Aprendo mucho sobre la comunidad diversa de Holgate y todas las diferentes culturas,” dice Mara.

Mara no vino a los Estados Unidos con amigos o una familia grande, pero la biblioteca ha sido un lugar donde ella puede conectarse con otros lectores y gente que habla español, y donde ella se ha sentido en comunidad.

“Como inmigrante, estas conexiones te ayudan a no sentir tanta nostalgia. Te hace feliz hablar tu idioma, conocer a otras personas y ayudar a la gente.”

Obtenga más información sobre la historia de la Biblioteca de Holgate y manténgase actualizado sobre el proyecto del Bono para la expansión y renovación de las bibliotecas del Condado de Multnomah. Ahora también puede ver cómo se verá la Biblioteca de Holgate después de las renovaciones.

Over three million children in the United States experience a disability and almost all of them attend school.

This wasn’t always true. Read Judith Heumann’s memoir of her life as a disability rights activist or watch the documentary Crip Camp to learn about the political and social fight for the rights of people with disabilities to receive an education, hold a job, and access the community.  Through these fights, the government formed the systems we use today to ensure that children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education.  

Look out: acronyms ahead!  You may need a special education glossary like this one from understood.org. Understood.org is a fantastic resource for parents looking to understand the special education system, what you can expect, and how to advocate for your child.

Birth to Kindergarten

Some disabilities are apparent from birth, and some come to light in the first years of growth and development.  In Multnomah County, the Multnomah Early Childhood Program (MECP) provides early intervention services for children with disabilities between birth and kindergarten.  

If you have a concern about how your child sees, hears, walks, talks, plays, or learns between birth and kindergarten, you can ask for a developmental evaluation.  Screen your child’s development using this online tool from the Oregon Screening Project out of the Center for Human Development at the University of Oregon.  Call 503-261-5535 to get in touch with MECP for early intervention services.  They will do several observations and interviews to assess your child.

The results of the MECP evaluation may diagnose your child with a disability and qualify them for early intervention special education services.  Early intervention could include services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, parent education, and special education preschool.    You’ll meet with a team to develop an Individual and Family Support Plan (IFSP) that outlines which services your child and family will receive, how much, when, and where.  MECP services are free.  They are part of public school.

School Age

Children with disabilities in grades K-12 have Individualized Education Plans (IEP) or 504 Plans.  Both outline what services and accommodations a child needs to be successful at school. 

A child will qualify for an IEP if they have one of 13 disabilities defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).  IEPs have a more formal, standardized format and process for describing a child’s present levels of development, their annual goals, accommodations and modifications, service levels, and classroom placement.  

A child qualifies for a 504 Plan if they have any disability that interferes with their ability to learn or navigate their school day.  There is no standard format, but the plan usually lists the services, accommodations, and supports the school will provide and the names of the people who will provide them.  

Learn more about the differences between an IEP and 504 Plan and what you can expect from each.  

If a child has an IFSP, you and your team will write an IEP or 504 Plan when they go to kindergarten.  

Some disabilities may not become apparent until a child enters school: ADHD or dyslexia for example.  Parents or educators who notice a child struggling in school can request an educational evaluation.  That evaluation may lead to a diagnosis and an IEP or 504 plan.  Getting an evaluation and effective IEP after starting school has been known to require persistence. 

When an IEP is in place, the child’s entire educational team meets annually to write the IEP for the coming year.  As a parent, you are an important part of that team.  The IEP includes a section for parent input where you can write about your child’s strengths, interests, and challenges to help the school know your child.  Your child is assessed every three years to determine that they still qualify for special education services.

Graduation and beyond

During the IEP meeting of your child’s sophomore year of high school, you’ll begin talking about diploma options and plans for after high school. 

Getting help

You don’t have to navigate this system alone!  Families and Communities Together (FACT Oregon) is a statewide group offering broad support for families experiencing disability. They offer help through parent education, connection to community, and a support line connecting you with other parents to help answer questions.  The IEP Toolkit and The IEP: What You Need to Know online training are two of their most popular resources.

Special education can be complicated and confusing, and you might feel you need a second education about special education.  The many resources and support options help you understand and advocate for your child throughout their school life.

This article was written for our Family Newsletter, available in English and Spanish. Please sign up and you can email us at learning@multcolib.org with any questions.

The start of a new school year can be a stressful time as families transition to a new schedule and students adjust to new teachers and classmates. We want you to know that the library is here to help! We have pulled together some resources to assist you, and encourage you to contact us at learning@multcolib.org for any further support.

Educational Support

Oregon Department of Education (ODE) Students & Families: Find resources on everything from school busing to graduation requirements

Parent/teacher conferences: Prepare ahead of time for parent/teacher conferences to feel more comfortable and confident. 

Who’s Who in Your Child’s School: This article from Reading Rockets introduces you to the various teachers, administrative staff and organizations you might encounter in your child’s school.

Tutoring: We have listed a variety of free tutoring opportunities on our blog, including the library’s K-12 Virtual Tutoring service, providing 30-minute sessions with adult tutors once a week on Tuesdays.

Food

Meal resources for families: We try to keep this post up-to-date on meal resources in Multnomah County (and beyond).

Health

Mental Health Moment: Back-to-school anxiety: Going back to school has always made kids - and their caregivers! - anxious. We share some ideas to help smooth the transition. 

Multnomah County Student Health Centers: Student Health Centers are like having a doctor’s office at school. They offer comprehensive primary and mental health care services to all Multnomah County youth ages 5-18. There are no out-of-pocket costs. 

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) Mental Health and Well-being: The ODE is committed to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of Oregon students and their families. 

Talking with teens about mental health: As caregivers, we must listen to our teenagers and reach out if we see concerning signs. Here are some resources to help.

What we can do to prevent bullying: Library staff offer resources, information and book recommendations about bullying and bullying prevention. 

Technology

Affordable Connectivity Program: Provided by the FCC, this program helps households afford the broadband they need for school or work by providing a monthly discount.

Library computers and internet access: The library offers free access to computers, chromebooks, printers and scanners within our library buildings. We also offer technology assistance in other ways. Please contact our Tech Help for more information or call us at 503.988.5123.

This article was written for our Family Newsletter, available in English and Spanish. Please sign up and you can email us at learning@multcolib.org with any questions.

How the library promotes literacy through music

On Tuesday, Aug. 30, the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners held a board briefing at which library representatives spoke about the critical connection between music and literacy, and the impact writing and music production has on youth in detention settings.

County Commissioners and Books to Beats presenters linked arm in arm

Director of Libraries Vailey Oehlke introduced the Board to the work that Jody Redifer, a Multnomah County Library Black Cultural Library Advocate, and David Shine, a social studies and English teacher for the Multnomah Education Service District (MESD), have brought to the Donald E. Long School (DEL) for the past three years through the Books to Beats program. 

Guest speakers also included Cherie Hernandez-Archuleta, a 17 year old who participated in the music program and volunteered in the Donald E. Long Detention Center's on-site library, as well as five-time Grammy Award winner and Portland native, Esperanza Spalding.

Jody provides a variety of library services to youth who are incarcerated at the detention center. There, they have access to a collection of over 8,000 books, library volunteer programs, and music classes with a recording studio. 

While he has selected some titles, Jody says he’s found that, “kids are the best selectors for their library.” He encourages them to read books out of their comfort zones and works with the teens to find culturally specific books and biographies written by people from marginalized communities.

Many of the youth incarcerated at the Donald E. Long Detention Center interview for the popular library volunteer program. All get hired and through the position, find an invaluable opportunity to learn about books and literacy.

“They help me curate the collection based on what they see and don’t see in the library,” says Jody.  

However, both Jody’s and the youth’s favorite way to engage with the library is through music class, or “studio time.” Students come to class with notebooks full of lyrics, and a newfound determination to succeed in their school work and change their lives.

One example of this is Cherie, who was previously detained at the detention center, and was among those who found refuge in studio time. She shared her story about how she grew up in the system and in and out of group homes. When Cherie discovered she could volunteer at the library, she took the opportunity.

“I completely changed and it really wouldn't have been if it wasn't for Jody and the recording studio this time around,” says Cherie. 

“I was reading about this poet Jimmy Santiago Baca, and how he learned how to read and write on his own in prison. And I just started writing poetry, and I fell in love. I loved that I could figure out how to rhyme and put my feelings on paper and make it all make sense to me — a different coping skill,” says Cherie. 

Cherie worked with Jody to record her poems in the recording studio. 

For many students at Donald E. Long School, the library’s music program is the first time they have an opportunity to learn how to write music, or even express their feelings through the written word. It’s also the first time they can learn how to use a recording studio, make beats and see it all come together. 

“I have recorded youth talking about absolutely heartbreaking upbringings and the things that happened to them. I have also recorded youth talking about their greatest joys and very special people in their lives. In these sessions, I see a lot of common threads among the youth at DEL, and among youth in general,” says Jody.

David Shine helps students develop their writing skills through his English classes. 

“I use music in my curriculum every day… I use it to teach writing, figurative language, narratives, abstract thoughts, current events, history —  the list continues,” says David. “When we talk about literacy, it goes far beyond reading and writing. Literacy is really about the ability to communicate effectively through various channels.”

“Poetry in its purest form is reliant on rhythm, form, structure, and pattern, as is music,” he continued. “Even spoken traditions and oral word poetry, they rely very heavily on rhythm, pattern and structure.”

David then shared testimonies about students who he has worked with in this music program that because of it, recommitted to school, left the detention center in good standing and have continued on with their education - even one who graduated and is now a youth counselor. 

“It’s really pretty amazing when you get a group of kids together who wouldn’t even even talk on the streets, or who may even be from rival gangs, and you see them working together and helping each other write and critique the music. There’s usually a lot of laughing and joking around that happens as well,” says Jody.

Acclaimed musician Esperanza Spalding spoke of how music has influenced her life, sharing that it was through music and the library that she was able to fulfill her schooling and feel a sense of belonging. 

“Music was the only place that I felt capable, where grownups were affirming my intelligence and my capacity,” says Esperanza. “(The library) was also the place where the books I needed to fulfill my home schooling requirements came from.”

Books to Beats presenters talk at County Commission meeting

She shared how one of the pivotal moments of her adolescence was coming to the Central Library for a jazz program where musicians welcomed any young person that would want to learn about instruments.

“There is something about feeling invited in, as a young person, where you felt rejected by adults who are holding the keys to kind of this brain based future of academic or good writing, where you are just not welcome. I remembered this sensation of  ‘Oh, I'm welcomed in,’” says Esperanza.

Esperanza also shared her experiences as a student, a musician and as a professor at Harvard University — specifically speaking to how music is a connecting thread between all of us, and she and others have rediscovered a love for learning through music. 

The music program and partnership between the library and Donald E. Long School has inspired many young musicians to open up to learning and a new path in life. Jody sees a wide range of opportunities for youth to participate in similar programs, outside of detention settings in libraries.

“You never know what talent you might find at Multnomah County Library…or somebody might not know what talent they have or what they are into…so if we can get recording spaces into libraries, I give my personal guarantee that they will be in constant use,” says Jody. 

“I choose to do this work because I was justice-involved as a youth and young adult, and I know that everyone is a work in progress and everyone has the capacity to make different decisions and take different actions for better or worse. We, as humans, are never the same person as we were the day before.”

Watch the board briefing.

The Library Connect program

Chances are if your child is a K-12 student in Multnomah County, they already have a library card! The Library Connect program allows students to have instant access to books, online resources, movies, music and more. 

Students in Centennial, David Douglas, Gresham-Barlow, Parkrose, Portland and Reynolds School District can come to Multnomah County Library any time and use their school ID card to check out items. Their school ID is already connected with our library system. 

More than 100,000 students have full access to Multnomah County Library thanks to this program. Of these students, two out of three did not have a library card previously.

Five students giving thumbs up

One family that moved to the Portland area went into the library with intentions of getting library cards. When North Portland Teen Librarian Isy Ibibo asked if the children had started school yet, and they said they had, she told them this most likely meant they already had cards because of the Library Connect program. 

“The whole family was excited to hear it. I asked for their names and birthdays and looked them up. The mom was stunned at how quickly we had gotten them set up with Library Connect accounts since they hadn’t been in the school system for very long,” says Isy. “Everyone agreed that it was such a cool service that we offered!”

Librarians are connecting with students within the library, but there are also staff members who have been going to schools and sharing information about Library Connect with teachers and students. Of these staff members, there is a dedicated full-time librarian focusing on developing this transformational relationship between the public library and school districts.

Youth Librarian Brianne Williams spent some time at Whitman Elementary last spring, sharing information about the library, Library Connect, and giving books to students. “It was such a thrill for me to be inside a school again, talking with kids! The teachers were so grateful for the books, and so were the kids,” says Brianne. 

The K-5 students Brianne connected with had great feedback to share about the books. One student shared “I love Zoey and Sassafras! I’ve read a bunch of the others, but not this one.” Another student said with delight  “this jumbie book looks really scary. I only have three chapter books at home. I really need another one. Thank you!” These giveaway books and more are made possible by gifts to The Library Foundation. These incentives have provided opportunities to engage students about Library Connect resources and build relationships with students and educators. 

With the Library Connect program there is something for every age in the K-12 range. For elementary and middle school students there are ebooks, audiobooks, comics, TV from Hoopla and documentaries from Kanopy. For grades 9-12 there is even more! With a collection for teens at OverDrive Teens, there are curated books and even digital copies of some of their favorite magazines from the Libby App. For teens thinking about the PSAT or SAT, they can find sample tests, live homework help, and other resources too.

The Library Connect program can help all year. During the summer when students are out of school and looking for something to do, “you can come in and immediately start borrowing books, ebooks, music. Or if you want to watch a movie, log on to Kanopy,” says Youth Services Project Librarian Kate Carter. 

“If your kid automatically has an account, how about getting a library account for yourself too as a form of modeling reading and library use?” says Kate.

Library Connect reduces barriers to access of library resources for kids and families. There is no longer a barrier of having to come in and sign up for a card, or even having to do the online form. You and your students can access all that the library has to offer.

For more information on Library Connect, go to https://multcolib.org/libraryconnect

Mara Bazua, librarian at Holgate Library

When Mara Bazua came to the United States from Guadalajara, Mexico, she did not have a computer. It was the early 2000s, so cell phones were newer, social media was in its infancy, and job applications had just switched from paper forms to online.

Mara would visit the library and use the public computers to check her social media as a way to stay connected to family and friends. 

“For a long time I didn't ask for a library card because I didn't know it was free. I just used a library pass for computers,” says Mara. 

“I would sit in between shelves and look at the books and put the books in their place. I knew exactly where each book went.”

During one visit, a librarian told Mara that she could take the books home. Mara was shocked that the library here was free.

“In Mexico there is that concept but you can only take certain books depending on your membership. I was counting all my pennies. I thought it was like paying rent. You're renting a book but you have to pay for it. It was incredible that I could borrow books and didn't have to pay,” says Mara. 

She knew the ins and outs of the shelves - and would sometimes even help patrons at the library while being one herself. 

The librarians noticed Mara’s love for the library, and one day asked, “Why don't you work at the library?”

Mara began working in libraries in 2009, and in 2011 visited Holgate Library as a patron for the first time. She started working for Multnomah County Library at North Portland Library, beginning of 2017. After seven months, Mara began a full-time role at Gresham Library.

“I always loved reading and knew a lot about books, so it was like I was a fish in water — working in a job that I like, that I am welcome and where my education is being valued,” says Mara. 

Then, in 2020, Mara became the Youth Services Outreach and Operations Supervisor. 

“It’s all moved really fast but it’s magic, it's incredible and I think everything started just by coming to the library, just like people in our community, come to the library looking for photocopies, where to print, or use a computer — I didn't really know the services that the library offered. I would give them my ID for a computer pass, and then staff would start talking to me. Little by little the staff made me feel welcome. I thought why are they so nice to me … but then I learned that libraries are like that with all people. They want people to feel welcome and safe,” says Mara.

More recently in 2021, Mara became the Holgate Library Administrator, where she supervises the daily operations of the library branch and its staff. 

“Every day is a new adventure and a learning experience. I learn so much about this diverse community and different cultures,” says Mara. 

Mara did not come to the United States having friends or a large family, but the library has been a place for her to connect with other readers, Spanish speakers and build a community. 

“As an immigrant these connections help you not feel so homesick. It makes you happy to speak your language, make connections and give others resources to help them.”

Learn more about the history of Holgate Library, and stay up to date on the Library Capitol Bond project updates. You can now also view the new interior of what Holgate Library will look like after renovations.


Multnomah County Library’s Summer Reading program encourages kids, teens, and families to read throughout the summer. With hundreds of kids signed up each year to participate, Summer Reading relies on youth volunteers to keep everything running smoothly. Volunteers hand out the gameboards at library branches, explain how the game works, and give out prizes. Most of a Summer Reading player’s interactions are with the youth volunteers!

Talia is a new volunteer. She was encouraged by her oldest sister to spend her summer at the library. Talia's sister began volunteering at Rockwood Library as an 8th grader— she is now graduating high school! 

Four siblings, some seated and others standing, behind Summer Reading table inside Rockwood Library.

“It’s fun. I really enjoy volunteering because I get to hang out with kids, some of my siblings and friends,” says Talia.

Talia is also participating in the Summer Reading program as a reader and has been checking out more books since she began volunteering.

“I’ve gotten like 16 books so far and I’ve read like 5 or 6 of them already,” says Talia.



Twelve-year old twins, Micah and Xavier, spent this past summer volunteering at Kenton Library. Though it was their first time volunteering for Summer Reading, they have participated in the game for as long as they can remember, Micah notes. 

Twins Micah and Xavier sitting behind the Summer Reading table at Kenton Library

Micah and Xavier are avid readers and Oregon Battle of the Books competitors. They often read for “at least two hours each day,” says Micah. When asked if they had any book recommendations, Xavier said “Yes; too many!” They both love fantasy books, and at the top of their list are The Wingfeather Tales by Andrew Peterson and the Warriors series by Erin Hunter.


 

Siblings Haben, Amen, and Eden are volunteering together at Fairview-Columbia Library. Haben is the oldest of the three, and he was just eight when he started volunteering with Summer Reading. Haben is now a freshman in high school, and is volunteering with his two siblings. But he isn’t the only one with Summer Reading knowledge; all three siblings have participated as readers in the past.

Three sibling, Haben, Amen, and Eden, all with big smiles, sitting behind the Summer Reading table at Fairview-Columbia Library.

“I actually wanted to volunteer since I’ve been doing the reading logs,” says Eden, the second oldest of the trio. “I also enjoy talking to the kids… it’s nice to meet new people.”

Amen, the youngest, agrees: “I like to help kids find books and give them coupons!”

In between helping summer readers, Amen likes to color and spend time with her siblings. Haben’s top recommendations for books are barbecue cookbooks – in particular those with recipes for brisket or ribs.

“I like graphic novels”, says Eden. “One graphic novel I would recommend for ages 10 and up is called Amulet.” 

In addition to having fun, youth volunteers have the opportunity to develop new skills, gain confidence and build their leadership skills. 

Volunteers who return year after year, increase their skill through serving in leadership roles and organizing, scheduling, and training new volunteers at their locations,” says Becky Blumer, volunteer services manager. “We frequently hear from young readers that they look up to volunteers and hope to volunteer one day. Thank you, Summer Reading volunteers, for your service and for inspiring our next generation of readers!”

Summer Reading is supported by gifts to The Library Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to our library’s leadership, innovation and reach through private support.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time to celebrate together with family and friends. The date of the celebration is based on the Chinese lunisolar calendar which combines the lunar and solar calendars. 

The Chinese lunisolar calendar is guided by the moon phases and the position of the sun in the sky. It is through the Chinese lunisolar calendar that many holidays are celebrated — including the Mid-Autumn Festival and Lunar New Year. 

The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most celebrated holidays in China, Vietnam and other Asian countries. It falls on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Chinese lunisolar calendar, which is sometime in mid-September, when the moon is at its fullest.

At the library, staff who celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival have shared their traditions with our library community. Through a series of in-person and virtual events throughout the years, patrons have made lanterns, eaten mooncakes, and read books about the various mythical stories surrounding the moon. 

“What I did in the past for Vietnamese storytime was buy the mooncakes and invite families to the large meeting room at Midland Library, we would decorate with lanterns and lights. After eating we made a lantern craft, and turned on the song for Mid-Autumn that we sing to light the way for the man on the moon,” says Trang Oliver, Vietnamese bilingual library assistant. 

The famous legend of Cuội, the man on the moon, is well known throughout Vietnam. As Trang shares it, there is a man who found a miracle tree where a tiger cub had been killed. “When the tiger mom came to that tree, she chewed a leaf and fed it to the tiger cub, and the tiger woke up and lived. The man pulled that tree and brought it home to plant it in his yard. On the way home an old wise man told him this is a magical tree … so he needs to take care of it and only use clean water, never dirty water. The man loved this tree more than anything — even his wife and family. So the wife thought maybe without the tree you will pay more attention to me, and the wife poured dirty water on the tree. When she did this, the tree's roots shaked out of the ground and the man grabbed the tree and he flew up in the sky. That’s how he ended up on the moon.”

So every Mid-Autumn Festival, when the moon is full, the children light the path with lanterns, for the man on the moon, so that he can come back to the earth. 

“My parents would tell me this story every year. We would light the lanterns and usually do it at night. It’s such a wonderful holiday,” says Trang.

In both China and Vietnam, this holiday focuses on time together as a family. However, the legends and myths surrounding the moon tend to change by country and region. 
In China, Chang’e (嫦娥) is known as the Chinese goddess of the moon, and the story of how she got there is very different from that of the man on the moon.

Chang’e (嫦娥) was the wife of a brave man. Every day the man would go out and see 10 suns in the sky, and would shoot down nine of the suns, so there was only one. The gods in the heavens were so happy with him that they gave him a potion so that he could live forever. 

“But there was a bad guy that knew about this potion, and tried to get it,” shares Sally Li, Chinese bilingual library assistant. “The wife says no no no, and so she swallows the potion so the bad guy won’t get it. Then she flies all the way to the moon … So every year the husband looks at the moon for his wife.”

Families share these traditional stories while celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival.

“This was a major holiday when we were in our own country. Here it is just another day so I think it is very nice that the library plans gatherings, so people can come and share …The library recognizes that this is a significant event for us and the library is trying. Although the library is not able to create the whole festival… But in the library space we can still celebrate the best way possible,” says Sally. 

This year there are both in-person and online programs for the community to enjoy the Mid-Autumn Festival. 

“People want this kind of event, they want to celebrate, it doesn't matter what we do but we celebrate and enjoy time together,” says Kenny Chen, Chinese bilingual library assistant.

Kenny is one of many library staff who plan events every year for the library community. 

“Multnomah County is a huge county and the Chinese community is large. Some people live close to Gregory Heights Library, others by Holgate Library … so it might be hard for them to come to a specific location. There are also many organizations hosting the Mid-Autumn Festival every year with potlucks or other things all about friends and family getting together,” says Kenny.

This Mid-Autumn Festival celebrate with loved ones by attending an in-person or online event at the library. And take a look at the Celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival booklist to share in the storytelling aspect of the holiday.

To listen to Mid-Autumn stories and tales, watch the Lan Su Chinese Garden’s Mid-Autumn Storytime video, with Multnomah County Library staff member Sally Li. 

Wherever you work, you have rights under the law. Sometimes it is difficult to understand these rights. Below are some resources that can help you learn about your rights as a worker and get help if you believe your rights are being violated.

Bureau of Labor and Industries Oregon
This page from BOLI provides specific information about your rights, wage and pay laws, discrimination, and filing complaints.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration
OSHA provides information about your safety and health rights at work and ways to file complaints.
en Español: www.osha.gov/publications/bylanguage/spanish

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
This organization oversees federal laws and has information on their website about types of discrimination and fact sheets for each one.
En Español: www.eeoc.gov/es/tipos-de-discriminacion

Northwest Workers Justice Project
Provides legal advice and education to Oregon's low-wage workers as they advocate on their own behalf.
En Español: nwjp.org/espanol

Voz Workers Rights Education Project
Empowers “workers to create social change for better opportunities and working conditions”.

United Farm Workers
UFW is the nation’s largest farm workers union using organizing and action to create change.

Pineros Y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste
PCUN “empowers farmworkers and working Latinx families in Oregon by building community, increasing Latinx representation in elections, and policy advocacy”.

The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations
AFL-CIO is a federation of unions that works collectively to “help make safe, equitable workplaces and give working people a collective voice to address workplace injustices”.

Fair Labor Standards Act
The FLSA “establishes minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards affecting employees in the private sector and in Federal, State, and local governments.”

This library blog post about legal aid may also be useful. 

The Library can help you do research about workers rights and help you with your job and career search. Contact us to ask questions or book a One-on-One appointment.

 

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