Interpretation of Equity

To apply equity in libraries it is helpful to define the term. The following definition is from ALA’s Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services glossary of terms. The definition was recommended by the ALA Task Force on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and adopted by ALA Council in 2017. 

Equity is not the same as formal equality. Formal equality implies sameness. Equity, on the other hand, assumes difference and takes difference into account to ensure a fair process and, ultimately, a fair (or equitable) outcome. Equity recognizes that some groups were (and are) disadvantaged in accessing educational and employment opportunities and are, therefore, underrepresented or marginalized in many organizations and institutions. The effects of that exclusion often linger systemically within organizational policies, practices, and procedures. Equity, therefore, means increasing diversity by ameliorating conditions of disadvantaged groups. (Adapted from National Association of Social Workers)

Library workers can advance equity in their communities in a variety of ways including through library programs, library collections, staff hiring and training, and prioritizing accessibility of library spaces. 

Creating Equitable Library Programs

Library workers can create equitable programs that ensure proactive engagement with the community. Libraries are situated in communities. Library workers advance equity by providing programs that engage the full community. Programs that reflect diverse audiences increase the value of the resources that are provided. 

Library workers can use a variety of methods to understand how their programs provide value. Hosting focus groups with underrepresented groups can be more valuable than solely relying on usage statistics. Gathering input to understand specific needs and interests is a way to proactively engage with the full community. 

Creating Equitable Library Collections 

Library workers can create policies that support an equitable library collection. A collection that represents the diverse experiences, cultures, and histories of all people in the community, including those who have been traditionally marginalized, advances equity. Library visitors come from all backgrounds. People who visit the library should see themselves reflected in the library’s materials. Collections that include race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, ability, age, and language better reflect the wide variety of experiences of library visitors and advance equity. 

Libraries that serve equitably support intellectual freedom and include material some may find objectionable. Collection choices based on professional standards and not fear of challenges or personal bias ensure that multiple points of view can be explored.    

Staffing and Training

Library workers can create hiring practices that actively recruit staff that reflect the diversity of the community. In addition, library staff can continually upgrade their cultural competency. Through ongoing education and training, library workers can enhance their interactions with the community they serve. 

Library workers can engage in training so their hiring practices support equity. They can share their best practices with the library community. Sharing more broadly can increase the adoption of equitable hiring practices in support of diversity and inclusivity in other libraries. Equitable hiring practices lead to a staff that fundamentally improves the library's relevance, impact, and internal strength.

Prioritizing Accessibility in Spaces

Library workers can apply the principles of Universal Design to their library spaces. This involves providing spaces for a wide range of users. This entails removing barriers to access and creating spaces that are for all ages, sizes, abilities, and disabilities. Seating built for different functions (standing desks, plush seating, or movable seating) supports a wide range of audiences and increases accessibility. 

To increase access to spaces, library workers can review the signage in their buildings. Clear, intuitive, and prominent signage that includes symbols and multiple languages, helps everyone navigate the space more easily. Another aspect is to consider those with sensory sensitivity and provide quiet space with non-flickering LED lighting. 

Prioritizing Accessibility in Spaces

Library workers can apply the principles of Universal Design to their library spaces. This involves providing spaces for a wide range of users. This entails removing barriers to access and creating spaces that are for all ages, sizes, abilities, and disabilities. Seating built for different functions (standing desks, plush seating, or movable seating) supports a wide range of audiences and increases accessibility. 

To increase access to spaces, library workers can review the signage in their buildings. Clear, intuitive, and prominent signage that includes symbols and multiple languages, helps everyone navigate the space more easily. Another aspect is to consider those with sensory sensitivity and provide quiet space with non-flickering LED lighting. 

Collaboration

Library workers can build mutually beneficial relationships with local organizations to increase equity. This could involve collaborating to operate a mobile library or to offer early literacy programs or to provide Braille books for accessibility. Other examples include partnering with local social service agencies to host on-site social workers, providing library services to juvenile detention centers, or providing free legal clinics for low-income residents. Library workers can also collaborate with cultural groups on programs to preserve Indigenous languages and provide translated works. Collaborating with others can increase the relevance and value of the services offered.  

Putting It All Together

Working toward a core value of equity in libraries means that a library is actively fulfilling its mission as a forum for learning and an empowering institution for full participation in a democratic society.

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