About

The Librotraficante movement is taking place across the United States - people coming together to celebrate and advocate for intellectual freedom and cultural knowledge. The Milwaukee branch of this movement is in motion. We are laying the foundation for "Libros Milwaukee," an underground library, and invite you to join us.  To get involved, contact librotraficantemilwaukee[at]gmail.com.

As a result of Arizona’s ban of Mexican American Studies, Tony Diaz founded the Librotraficante movement in Houston, TX.  Inspired by this movement, we are organizing the creation of an underground library in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Libros Milwaukee will be centered on Mexican American expression, perspective, and history and will highlight Ethnic Studies literature that is meaningful and affirming of the identities and experiences of individuals of color.  The underground library seeks to eliminate barriers of access and provide a welcoming environment where community members of all ages, races, and ethnicities can access Mexican American cultural works and Ethnic Studies literature.

The vision of this project extends beyond physical access to literature and cultural works.  It is a movement to raise the level of consciousness and to pursue social justice within the city of Milwaukee, beginning with youth.  In an effort to build and support the future leaders of our community, the library will provide a physical space and educational materials for youth development of intellect, consciousness, compassion, and activism.

Phase One of this community project will secure funds, books, and physical space for Libros Milwaukee as well as build community support to advance the opening of the library.  We have identified the Hillview location of the Centro Hispano of Milwaukee as the location for this project. In addition, we will develop relationships with youth advocates as well as formal and informal youth leaders.

Phase Two of this community project will entail a grand opening of the library. A permanent space will allow us to begin to facilitate educational workshops and cultural programs.  Since youth will be the primary library audience, they will be the primary advisory group for the series of programs.  There are opportunities for mural projects in the desired location and commitments from local artists to lead art workshops.

Organizer Bios:

Adriana McCleer is a Ph.D. student at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee School of Information Studies, with a focus on intellectual freedom and information access. She earned her M.A. in Library and Information Science from the University of Arizona. Her professional experience as a public librarian in Tucson, AZ and community librarian in Phoenix, AZ are the foundation for her passion for community engagement. 

Aidana Lira is a freelance writer who earned her M.A. in English - Professional Writing and Creative Writing from Mount Mary College in Milwaukee, WI. Her love for Latino literature and literacy fuels her passion for writing. She is also an advocate for strong families and sustainable communities through purposeful leadership with over 10 years experience in nonprofits in Southeast WI.

Melissa Flores was born and raised in Chicago, IL and graduated from Mount Mary College in Milwaukee, WI with a B.A. in English Professional Writing. She is a current Master of Education candidate at the Harvard Graduate School of Education in the Arts in Education program.  Her long history of involvement with Chicago-area nonprofits and background of organizing in the Latino community inspires her to continue her work in positive community building.

Brendaliz Rodriguez is a lifelong resident of Milwaukee’s south side and has strong ties to the Latino community. She is a top-ranked graduate of South Division High School and has 20 years of professional experience in finance. She is passionate about youth development and youth empowerment.