In 2018, the state of Massachusetts passed a bill requiring Grade 8 and high school students to complete nonpartisan student-led civics projects––an inquiry-based, real world–oriented, civic action project. School and public libraries can play a key role in successful implementation of this new legislation by providing high-quality civic learning opportunities and resources for students and educators inside and outside schools. In response, from 2018 to 2019 the DKP, in partnership with the MLS, conducted a pilot project to identify key partner libraries––both public and school libraries (see the map)––and work with them to develop programming exemplars, field cases, and program resources, for library-based civic learning. From the pilot stage, we learned that there is a growing need for strong professional development opportunities for library-based civic learning, not only for librarians in Massachusetts but also for those nationwide. 

Pilot Cohort Libraries of the Young Changemakers in 21^st-century Libaries Project [2018-2019]

See how school libraries used the 10 Qs in their programs and activites below.

See the slides for more detail of each library. 

Springfield  City Library 

Waltham Public Library

Lawrence Public Library

Turner Public Library 

Plymouth Public Library 

Shrewsbury High School Library 

Carlisle Public School Library

Lawrence High School Library

Dartmouth Middle School Library 

Lawrence Middle School Library 

_{This project is funded by a Laura Bush 21st Century Library Program Award (“Young Changemakers in the 21st-Century Library.”)  Visit the MLS  Young Changemakers.}