Marquita D. Gooch, MLIS, reflects on the pitfalls and power dynamics of representing a library system publicly, while being limited in her ability to speak freely without fear of retaliation. She talks about the freedom she’s found to be more vocal since leaving traditional library work, and shares how her experiences became catalysts for creating Life After Libraries, her podcast and web series chronicling her journey beyond traditional libraries, and Black in the Stacks, her podcast highlighting the inspiring stories of librarians, authors, advocates, and others from the African American and African Diaspora.
Black in the Stacks is more than a project; it's a way to build narrative power. Marquita believes everyone has a story to tell, and encourages anyone who can to share theirs.
00:00 Introduction: The Spirit of Service in Libraries
01:34 Challenges and Changes in the Library System
02:26 Finding Your Calling in Librarianship
03:25 Going Viral: Highlighting Diversity in Libraries
05:30 The Power of Storytelling and Oral Histories
06:38 Introduction to Social Justice Origin Stories
07:49 Guest Introduction: Marquita Gooch
08:23 Personal Reflections on Education and Libraries
11:19 The Journey to Becoming a Librarian
14:27 Facing Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
26:13 Navigating Library Politics and Advocacy
38:53 Coping with Loss and Grief
39:46 Making Meaning from Experiences
42:22 Life After Libraries
44:30 Challenges in Librarianship
52:00 Starting Black in the Stacks
57:31 Advice for Creatives
01:03:18 Reflections and Inspirations
01:18:33 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude
Connect with Marquita by searching for @marquitatheelibrarian on most platforms. You can also visit the Black in the Stacks Website: https://blackinthestacks.com/
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Social Justice Origin Stories is produced, edited, and hosted by Relando Thompkins-Jones.
