In 2020, the University of Kansas Libraries began a year-long diversity audit of the circulating monograph collection. The study also sought to learn how these monographs were acquired. Titles and publishers not profiled by GOBI were significantly less likely to be in the collection. The presentation will describe the study methodology and limitations, highlight results, and discuss next steps. Participants will learn about the audit process and how KU will utilize these findings to make changes to collection development and acquisition methods to make long-term improvements to the diversity of the library collection.
Suggested Readings:
In accordance with Article 1 of the Library Bill of Rights, it is our social responsibility as librarians to provide users with information resources that reflect the diversity of our communities in support of both academic pursuits and personal enrichment. This session will provide an overview of diversity audits, describe various methods to assess diversity in collections, and highlight potential challenges and limitations.
As Miami University Libraries work on a DEAI Strategic Plan, what are best practices for ensuring the prioritization of DEAI at all levels of the libraries? How can the libraries be a campus leader in DEAI work through their unique position and perspective for encouraging campus-wide DEAI work? This session will focus on how Miami University Libraries can create cultures of belonging, where every student, staff, and faculty is invited to bring their best self and whole self to make the libraries an exceptional place for thriving.