Library Journal's Movers and Shakers 2021

Library Journal recently released its 2021 list of Library Movers and Shakers.

It is an annual snapshot of the transformative work being done by those in libraries of all types and sizes and across the field:

"Over the years, Movers have come from the ranks of both degreed librarians and non-degreed library workers, as well as volunteers and vendors, and have come from academic, public, school, and special libraries settings—occasionally even outside of traditional libraries altogether."

"This year’s class of Movers has had little choice but to embrace change and run with it. And they’ve certainly risen to the challenge. Their stories and so many more offer actionable examples to replicate and adapt across a range of library environments and communities (...)"

"This year’s Movers are doing their groundbreaking work in the middle of a pandemic, at a time when providing basic, much-needed services often felt like—and was—an exceptional achievement. In recognizing those who were able to go above and beyond this year, we want also to hold space for those who overcame illness, grief, fear, financial losses, and more to deliver core library services in new, safer ways. The point of naming Movers & Shakers in the middle of a crisis is not to say that everyone can or should be expected to deliver exceptional results despite these circumstances. Rather, it is that learning from those who were able to do so can make their advances that much more achievable for the next person."

Winners were chosen in the following categories:

• Change agents
• Innovators
• Advocates
• Educators
• Digital developers
• Community builders

The publication provides a map of all the Movers and Shakers from 2002 to today. Over the years, quite a few Canadians have been added to the list.