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High School Ethnic Studies Initiative Library Guide

A guide to accessible resources available for high school educators and other K-12 educators on Ethnic Studies topics. Curated by Ethnic Studies librarians.

Art by Dignidad Rebelde, a graphic arts collaboration between San Leandro-based artists Jesus Barraza and Melanie Cervantes.

High School Ethnic Studies Initiative

This library guide was designed by librarians at the Ethnic Studies Library to support the High School Ethnic Studies Initiative (HSESI), a partnership between the Department of Ethnic Studies, the American Cultures Center, and the History-Social Science Project. HSESI seeks to support Bay Area high school teachers of Ethnic Studies by sharing knowledge, curricular resources, and a community of practice. We hope this guide will help support teachers in developing their curriculum in Ethnic Studies and incorporate learning about social justice and the histories of communities of color. 

 

HSESI Resource Hub

The UC Berkeley HSESI Resource Hub(link is external) is a curated collection of materials designed to support students and instructors in preparation for the rollout of California’s high school Ethnic Studies graduation requirement. Our hub aims to foster a deep understanding of oppression, liberation, and the intricate tapestry of social movements that shape society. Whether you’re seeking to enrich your teaching practices, expand your knowledge base, or engage in community-driven initiatives, this resource hub creates entry points to teaching and engaging with Ethnic Studies.

Visit Hub

UC Berkeley Library Access

Information for K-12 teachers

Borrowing information for K-12 teachers

  • California residents currently teaching in a California public school are eligible to receive a free library card.
    • Bring proof of full-time current employment on letterhead from the school principal or district to the Privileges Desk (Doe Library, Floor 1) or email us at privdesk-library@berkeley.edu.
    • The letter must confirm employment during the current or forthcoming academic school year.
    • UC Berkeley library cards must be renewed annually for the next fiscal year, beginning any time after April 1 of the current fiscal year (the UCB fiscal year begins July 1).
    • K-12 teachers who do not have a library card are accorded the same privileges as visitors.

Available to K-12 teachers with a library card

  • A maximum of 20 books checked out at any one time
  • Access to most campus libraries, including Main (Gardner) Stacks through Doe Library
  • Reference assistance, as needed
  • Databases, library catalogs. and other educational resources via public computers in the libraries
  • Many library events
  • Library exhibits
  • Printing/scanning in the libraries

Libraries and services not available to K-12 teachers with a library card

  • Art History/Classics Library
  • Graduate Services
  • Interlibrary borrowing
  • Media Resources Center
  • Moffitt Library
  • Items on reserve for UC Berkeley students
  • Remote access to licensed databases

Visiting the Ethnic Studies Library

  • The Ethnic Studies Library is open for browsing and viewing archives (No Cal ID required)
  • The library is equipped with a book scanner, microfilm reader, and six public computers where you can access campus databases. 
  • We welcome class visits! Please e-mail eslibrary@berkeley.edu for more information on bringing your class.