As part of Library and Information Science MSc dissertation research, taking place at Ulster University, a school librarian is inviting fellow secondary school librarians to take part in a survey looking at the practical steps that have been taken to promote diversity and inclusion in secondary school libraries.
In 2019, CILIP issued Libraries, Information and Knowledge Changes Lives, a position paper outlining the organisation’s vision including this statement: “Our world is undergoing a period of rapid, turbulent change. From the impact of globalisation and digital disruption to the rise of populist nationalist politics and the ever-present risk of racial and other forms of prejudice, it has never been more important to take a clear stand for the rights of the individual.”
Diversity and inclusion remain fundamental to the school library’s offer of a welcoming place for all. These commitments to inclusive practice and advocacy are positive and the moral and professional imperative to diversify and consider representation in libraries is clear. However, policies and initiatives do not always turn into action.
But putting these principles into practice is not as simple as it might seem. Creating a diverse and inclusive culture within school libraries in the current financial, social and political climate cannot be taken for granted. This survey aims to determine the practical steps that have been taken to promote diversity and inclusion in secondary school libraries. This research aims to recognise work that has been done, acknowledge areas of difficulty in achieving diversity and inclusion goals, and to provide a snapshot of how the words and policies of our professional bodies have been translated into action.
They would be grateful if you could complete the survey, which should take about ten minutes depending on how much detail you'd like to include. The survey remains open for two weeks until Friday 14th February 2024 and can be accessed here. Your contribution would be very much appreciated.
If you have any questions about the research or require any further information, please contact Kate McGuinness: [email protected]
Dissertation supervisor: Dr Carolynn Rankin: [email protected]
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