Diversity Research
ETHNIC & CULTURAL DIVERSITY
IN LIBRARY & INFORMATION STUDIES
Why Diversity in Librarianship?
Studies suggest that interpersonal similarity increases ease of communication, and fosters relationships of trust and reciprocity, and also a sense of belonging and membership (Barak et al., 1998; Hernandez, 1994). Ethnicity is one of the key factors, based on which interpersonal similarities can be determined. It contributes to the cultural as well as physical similarities. In libraries, as in schools and other public organizations, it is important to have enough librarians of color so that all the users, regardless of their ethnic and cultural background, can see authority figures (such as librarians, teachers) who look like them, and that the users feel comfortable and affirmed that they are in a place that is right for them. In addition, ethnic diversity is important because it enriches a society by offering all citizens more opportunities to experience, learn, and understand one another.
As Winston (2001; 2005) accurately pointed out, diversity in libraries is important not only for the provision of better information services, but also for the better performance and success of libraries and librarians. A number of research studies suggest that companies, diverse in minority employment and other aspects, tend to be more successful and perform better than others (Colvin, 1999; Kuczynski, 1999). It would be reasonable to think that there is a positive relationship between the level of diversity and the organizational performance in library setting as well. Furthermore, diversity is also critical to libraries, because their mission, like other public organizations, is to serve the public that is becoming more diverse.
Recruiting and Retaining Students of Color for LIS Schools: Perspectives
from Librarians of Color
(Study supported by ALA Diversity Research Grant)
Abstract
The proportion of ethnic minorities in the LIS school student population has remained significantly lower than in the US population: in 2002, ethnic minorities constituted only 11.3% of the LIS student population, compared to 31.3% of the US population. Although LIS schools and library/information professional associations have made efforts to recruit more students of color to LIS programs, the under-representation of ethnic minorities continues. The study was conducted to assess what LIS schools and other library/information professional associations have done for the recruitment and retention of students of color from the perspective of librarians of color; and to identify effective strategies for the recruitment and retention. A nation-wide, Web-based survey was conducted to collect inputs from librarians of color who already have experience with LIS schools and the librarianship. Based on the findings, suggestions are made to improve the recruitment and retention of students of color, which will ultimately contribute to the ethnic/cultural diversity in librarianship.
· Report of preliminary findings (for a full report, contact the author)