Cheng Library Supports Civic Engagement Through Civic Literacy Initiative The Cheng Library launched the Civic Literacy Initiative during the spring of 2019 in support of the University's commitment to Civic Engagement. Voter Basics 101 program: Librarian Gary Marks, introduces students to the Voting 101 Guide developed by the Cheng Library The Cheng Library launched the Civic Literacy Initiative during the spring of 2019 in support of the University's commitment to Civic Engagement. Led by Librarian Gary Marks, the initiative aims to have the Library actively pursue opportunities to enhance the civic knowledge and awareness of the William Paterson community. The Cheng Library believes the Civic Literacy initiative will foster the development of students' knowledge and skills to understand and discharge civic responsibilities in a democratic society. Through this understanding, students obtain the requisite tools for lifelong civic participation and leadership. The Library will offer students a new element to their civic engagement experience with workshops, programming, and guest speakers, in addition to our research, discovery, and learning resources. The initiative began with the addition of the Library to the WP LEADS Digital Badge program, with a special interest in the civic engagement component. When discussing the Library's early contributions to the WP LEADS program, Donna Minnich-Spuhler, Director of CASL, said, "I continue to be impressed with the creativity and support of the Cheng Library with the WP LEADS Badge program, especially in the area of civic engagement. The Library has offered numerous workshops regarding advocacy, politics, civic participation, and democratic education, often in collaboration with Campus Activities, Service and Leadership, the American Democracy Project, student groups, academic departments, and the cultural theme celebrations.” In November, prior to Election Day, the Library hosted a Voter Basics 101 program. The program afforded students an opportunity to overcome first-time voter anxiety by providing a mock voting booth in addition to numerous resources to ease the voting process and supporting informed voting decisions. The event was co-sponsored by the ADP, the SGA, and CASL. In 2020, the Library will continue to expand its Civic Literacy Initiative as a Census 2020 "complete count" champion, organizing initiatives to inform voter experiences, and providing support and resources for the University's civic engagement mission. February 06, 2020
