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Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Accessibility (DEIJA): Best Practices

SCRLC's Diversity Statement

SCRLC is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and accessibility in all aspects of our operation. The DEIJA Advisory Committee and all SCRLC leadership acknowledge that DEIJA work can at times be challenging and strongly encourages all members to continue learning and commit to helping one another and our colleagues in that process. We are committed to the creation and maintenance of a safe, inclusive, and respectful space for a diverse and multicultural community. Having representation and engagement from library workers from diverse and historically oppressed and marginalized groups can effectively position us to address the changing needs of our members and their communities.

How Libraries Can Take Action

  • Publicly affirm support for #Black Lives Matter with signs and displays and be prepared to explain your support to detractors. Why Libraries Should Support Black Lives Matter.
  • Create an #BlackLivesMatter ebook display for patrons who want to educate themselves. Here is an example from Santa Clara County Library District.
  • Purchase/display books by and about people of color that are not just overtly about race. Especially for kids.
  • Partner with and support minority-owned businesses in your communities for things like catering, programming, etc. Here is a list of Diverse Independent Businesses in and around the Ithaca area.
  • Support Black colleagues
  • Amplify and support messages from the Black Caucus of ALA and others.
  • Encourage archivists who are actively gathering materials from protests (and the pandemic generally) to be mindful of whose point of view they are sharing.
  • Further your anti-racist education by attending online programs.
  • Listen to feedback from the community and don't let mistakes or criticisms stop your progress. Make adjustments and apologies as needed and keep going.

Interrupting Microaggressions

This project is administered by the South Central Regional Library Council.