What does it take to build and protect a truly diverse library collection? In this powerful panel moderated by Lily Kwok (Ontario Library Association), three librarians, teacher-librarians and educators—Michael Nyby, Karen Devonish-Mazzotta and Anuka Dey—share their experiences curating inclusive shelves while confronting growing challenges from shrinking budgets to increasing book bans. Join us for a candid conversation about why a diverse range of books in libraries matter, the obstacles educators face, and the strategies they’re using to ensure every student can see themselves reflected in their library.
This free evening panel, part of FOLD Kids Book Fest, will be streamed live on YouTube and is open to all educators, parents, and community members committed to equitable access to stories.
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Karen Devonish-Mazzotta has been teaching FSL for 28 years with the TDSB.
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Born and raised in Mississauga to Bengali immigrant parents, Anuka Dey is an educator committed to equity, representation, and culturally responsive teaching.
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Michael Nyby (he/him) is a cataloguing and metadata librarian at the Hamilton Public Library and former chair of the CFLA Intellectual Freedom Committee.
Sheetal Sheth
Participants from the writing workshops are invited to present their creations like a FOLD Kids Book Fest author!
Author Sheetal Sheth (Anjali Can!) presents a fun, hands-on writing workshop.
Patrick de Belen
Poet Patrick de Belen leads tweens and teens in a spoken word writing workshop.