Baldacci Civil Discourse & Collaboration Initiative

Building Stronger Communities Through Respectful Dialogue

The Baldacci Civil Discourse and Collaboration Initiative, a partnership between the Library of Virginia and the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) College of Humanities and Sciences, promotes constructive, respectful dialogue about the issues shaping our communities and our democracy.

Established through a transformative $13 million joint gift from Michelle and David Baldacci —the largest joint contribution ever made to the Library of Virginia and VCU — the initiative brings together educational institutions, libraries and community organizations to foster civic engagement, active listening and collaborative problem-solving across Virginia. By creating opportunities for people to learn from one another, engage with differing perspectives and examine history through primary sources, the initiative seeks to strengthen communities and prepare the next generation of informed, engaged citizens. The initiative advances this goal through educational programming, public conversations and collaborative learning experiences.

Focus Areas

Experiential Learning

Participants will engage in hands-on learning experiences and simulations designed to develop skills in active listening, deliberative dialogue and collaborative problem-solving.

Academic Curriculum

VCU faculty will develop interdisciplinary coursework that incorporates the principles of civil discourse while drawing on the Library of Virginia's collections and primary sources to connect historical perspectives with contemporary issues.

Public Programs and Events

The Library of Virginia and VCU will host lectures, moderated conversations, forums and symposia that bring nationally recognized speakers and community leaders together for thoughtful discussions about today's most pressing issues.

Spaces for Dialogue

The Library will expand programming spaces and initiatives that support community conversations, collaborative learning and engagement with Virginia's documentary history.

Connecting History and Civic Life

For generations, libraries have served as trusted places where communities gather to learn, exchange ideas and engage with one another.

As the Commonwealth's archives, the Library of Virginia preserves the stories and records that document Virginia's past while providing a welcoming environment where people can better understand the challenges and opportunities of the present. Our mission has always been to connect Virginians to their history and to one another — and the Civil Discourse and Collaboration Initiative is a natural extension of that work. Our agency serves as a trusted public square where Virginians can explore history, exchange ideas and engage in conversations that strengthen civic life. Through this nonpartisan initiative, the Library will continue expanding its role as a place where history informs meaningful civic dialogue and where all Virginians can find common ground.

Social media graphic for David Brooks event

Upcoming Event

You’re invited by the Library of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University’s College of Humanities and Sciences to attend “A Conversation with David Brooks,” the inaugural lecture of the Baldacci Civil Discourse and Collaboration Initiative.

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