The Library Diversity Council Takes Shape

The goal of the Library’s newly formed Diversity Council is to examine library practices through the lens of diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism and to institute changes that will promote equity and inclusivity. The Library Diversity Council began its work in late spring 2021.

As its first task, the Council formed a team to support the library’s participation in the OhioLINK Luminaries Program . This program provides a paid, resume-building work experience in the information studies profession, creates  support network for participants, and encourages students from diverse backgrounds to consider pursuing a career in librarianship or Information Sciences.

Next, the members took a broader look at the activities of the library to identify where change was needed. In addition to reviewing and revising procedures and guidelines to eliminate bias, library staff are busy reimaging services, instruction, and programs to better meet the varied needs, interests, and abilities of the campus community.  Teaching librarians are using universal design to create engaging, inclusive information literacy workshops. Collections and Resource Management staff are working on several reparative description projects and curating a graphic novel collection focused on diversity and social justice. Low-priced health and hygiene items have been added to the basic school supplies in the vending machine to meet immediate needs. Future projects include investing in collections that celebrate diversity, holding book discussions that feature underrepresented writers, and eliminating barriers to physical and virtual access.  The Council is also concerned with creating a more diverse workforce through inclusive hiring practices and providing learning opportunities to help library staff reflect on and challenge their biases and perspectives.  

If you have a suggestion for improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in the library, please submit it via this online form.     

by Ann Marie Smeraldi, Assistant Director for Public Service and Library Diversity Council Co-chair