This year, more Illinois libraries are being scrutinized for carrying books that are LGBTQ-friendly as well as books about racism.

This year, more Illinois libraries are being scrutinized for carrying books that are LGBTQ-friendly as well as books about racism.

Last month when libraries closed across Illinois, it meant more than just a loss of reading material. We hear about some of the ways that libraries are continuing to try to serve their communities.

On the 21st: We talked with gun training instructors and owners about the recent wave of teachers acquiring concealed carry permits in the wake of shooting incidents in recent years. Plus, Illinois infrastructure, and what lies down the road for future construction and maintenence. And, a recent study shows that lesbian, bisexual and questioning women are at a higher risk for diabetes and obesity later in life. Then, we discussed what one Illinois library is doing to eliminate the fines associated with forgetting to return your book, and how this came to be.

An event this weekend will explore issues of race and representation at the University of Illinois’ School of Information Science. Alumni of color from the I-School will share their personal experiences with racism, both as students and professionals.