The needs of diverse groups aren’t only met by collection development, but also through programming. Multicultural and diverse groups are different from mainstream groups, and therefore have different information needs. Studies show that, in general, minorities have less Internet access at home, so this is where libraries become important (Rubin). By providing Internet access, libraries are inviting diverse groups into the library, but how can we keep minorities interested in the library? By offering targeted programs where libraries can continue to interest diverse patrons.
Unfortunately, there are many reasons that libraries are not able to offer programming to diverse groups. Some of the main reasons include lack of funding, staff and time, lack of staff knowledge regarding diverse groups and possible “tension between staff and members” of diverse groups (Rubin). While these are large obstacles, they can be overcome by taking what resources libraries have and creating a welcoming environment for all groups.
Some ways to increase diversity within the library include promoting diversity among staff through the sharing of family traditions, celebrating Women’s History Month in March, Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, and Black History Month in February with food, games, arts, crafts and music (Alexander). The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) population should also be represented with activities aimed towards their group.
According to Rubin, there should be more effort in recruiting multicultural staff, developing and training the staff to work with various groups and promoting multicultural services within the library (384). The needs of diverse populations must be considered by library administration in order to offer effective programming within the library. An easy way to increase awareness about diverse cultures is to work with local organizations, such as the local GLBT chapter or various ethnic organizations. Sponsoring field trips, allowing groups to display materials within the library or to provide information about local cultural events are also easy ways to promote diversity.
Disabled individuals are another overlooked population. Individuals with disabilities represent over 20% of the population, making this group the largest minority in the United States. Similar to other minority groups, disabled individuals generally have increased needs and less Internet access in their homes (Rubin).
The earliest services for disabled individuals were for the visually impaired and institutionalized, and book deliveries to the homebound started in 1901. These outreach programs continue today as many libraries offer home delivery to disabled or elderly individuals. In order to provide quality service to disabled individuals, libraries should accommodate individuals through easy physical access like ramps, parking, elevators and wider aisles (Rubin). Libraries should also accommodate disabled individuals with machines that read books or other materials aloud, Braille machines and other technology such as “page-turning devices and modified keyboards” (Rubin). Some libraries also offer basic sign language classes for staff members so they can effectively communicate with deaf or hard of hearing patrons (Redd, 2003).
Sources:
Alexander, L. (2005). Designing Multicultural Inclusion/Awareness Programs. Florida Libraries, 47 (1), 15-17.
Arist, S. (2007). Success in Diversity: How Three Illinois Libraries Embrace Multiculturalism. Illinois Library Association Reporter , 25 (5), 4-7.
Asselin, M. (2003). Literacy and Diversity: Working with the Grain. Teacher Librarian , 30 (4), 53-54.
Redd, A. (2003). Diversity Programming in an Academic Library: The Auraria Experience. Colorado Libraries , 29 (4), 26-29.
Rubin, R. E. (2004). Foundation of Library and Information Science (2nd ed.). New York, New York: Neal-Shuman Publishers.
Discussion Questions:
1. How does your local library promote multiculturalism and diversity?
2. Should libraries create separate programs for multicultural patrons?
3. Should GLBT and disabled individuals be considered multicultural or diverse?
4. What are the benefits and drawbacks of programs for multicultural or diverse groups?
5. If you could create a multicultural program for your library, what would it be and why?
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24 comments:
My library promotes multiculturalism and diversity just by the fact that we are open to all and provide a wide range of views on all sorts of topics. We often create displays and bulletin boards that revolve around a variety of themes, such as Women's History Month and Black History Month. During February, the Monroe County Library System runs a series of blues events to celebrate Black History Month. This series culminates in a free concert with noted musicians that draws people from all over the area, not just Monroe. We reach out to the Salvation Army population, and provide space for Project Read tutors and students to meet. We have Zoom-Text loaded on one of our Internet computers, and have a special reader whereby vision-impaired patrons can magnify the print of whatever they are reading. These are just a few examples that spring into my mind quickly.
De Aidre made a good point in her comment in the previous post. We should not necessarily advertise for diverse populations to attend programs, but I do think we should provide programs that do not leave anyone out. This means going to all areas served to offer programming, and when planning programs, keeping in mind that not everyone attending will be of the majority population. I think if a library is creating specific programs geared for just one diverse population, they may be missing the point of what a library's mission is, to serve everyone. When multiple cultures mix, don't we all learn a little about each other's differences as well as our likenesses? When I see the variety in the children that attend our storytimes and playgroups, I am proud of my library system for serving such a diverse population. We have children of single parents, working parents, and stay-at-home moms AND dads. Our patrons are African American, Chinese, Mexican, Indian, Arab, white, Christian, Muslim, Jewish, and atheist. Isn't that what a melting pot is all about?
1. How does your local library promote multiculturalism and diversity? My public library really doesn't attempt anything of the sort.
2. Should libraries create separate programs for multicultural patrons? Yes - others will attend the events and learn something new. My favorite annual event in college was the festival of lights event for diwali.
3. Should GLBT and disabled individuals be considered multicultural or diverse? In the interest of promoting diversity/acceptance, books highlighting different lifestyles and challenges or LBGTA or disabled people should be included in purchasing choices.
4. What are the benefits and drawbacks of programs for multicultural or diverse groups? It is good to introduce new cultural trends and ideas to people. People should learn about things outside themselves.
5. If you could create a multicultural program for your library, what would it be and why? A festival of lights event would be nice.
Mary - It sounds like the Monroe County Library System offers great multicultural programs! They are definitely reaching out to all populations. I do agree with your comment that libraries should "provide programs that do not leave anyone out." While researching for this blog, I found it interesting that organizations are increasing the number of programs for diverse populations, rather than just creating programs that would interest all populations.
Sylvia - You make a great point about how "people should learn things outside themselves." Although your local library doesn't actively promote multiculturalism, I think as long as they include everyone, people would be able to mix with other groups.
I think it is extremely important for librarians--in fact all information professionals--to have good intercultural competence skills. If they did not develop these skills in LIS school the libraries should be providing appropriate training. I had previously listed a number of resources in this regard on the discussion board, which I probably should have kept for this blog entry. So, I am repeating these resources here in case anyone missed them on the discussion board and is interested in them.
Resources re: Diversity, Multiculturalism, and Intercultural Competence
http://www.awesomelibrary.org/Classroom/Social_Studies/Multicultural/Intercultural_Communication.html
http://www.awesomelibrary.org/multiculturaltoolkit-styleschart.html
http://www.awesomelibrary.org/multiculturaltoolkit.html
http://www.awesomelibrary.org/multiculturaltoolkit-stages.html
http://www.awesomelibrary.org/multiculturaltoolkit-references.html
http://www.edchange.org/multicultural/quizzes.html
http://www.edchange.org/multicultural/index.html
http://www.extension.umn.edu/units/diversity/
http://www1.umn.edu/ohr/teachlearn/resources/diversity/
http://trainingforchange.org/content/view/188/56/
http://www.diversityweb.org/
http://www.tolerance.org/teach/?source=redirect&url=teachingtolerance
http://www.k-state.edu/tilford/
http://learn2beglobal.com/
http://globaledge.msu.edu/resourceDesk/culture.asp
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/cfsi-icse/cil-cai/home-en.asp
Sample LIS course, with some great reference sources:
http://www2.sims.berkeley.edu/courses/is142/f97/
http://sunsite.berkeley.edu/AmericanCultures/guide.html
Additional Resources:
Bonner Foundation. (2006). Bonner civic engagement training modules--Groups within groups: Exploring dimensions of diversity. Retrieved April 11, 2006, from http://www.bonner.org/resources/modules/modules_pdf/BonCurGrpsWithinGroups.pdf
Casse, P. (1981). Training for the cross-cultural mind: A handbook for cross-cultural trainers and consultants (2nd ed.). Washington, D.C.: Society for Intercultural Education Training and Research.
Gudykunst, W. B. (1998). Bridging differences: Effective intergroup communication (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Gudykunst, W. B. (2005). Theorizing about intercultural communication. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
Gudykunst, W. B., & Kim, Y. Y. (1997). Communicating with strangers: An approach to intercultural communication (3rd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
Gudykunst, W. B., & Mody, B. (2002). Handbook of international and intercultural communication (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Gudykunst, W. B., Ting-Toomey, S., & Nishida, T. (1996). Communication in personal relationships across cultures. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Hall, E. T. (1959). The silent language (1st ed.). Garden City, NY: Doubleday.
Hall, E. T. (1966). The hidden dimension (1st ed.). Garden City, NY: Doubleday.
Hall, E. T. (1981). Beyond culture. New York: Anchor Books.
Hall, E. T. (1983). The dance of life: The other dimension of time (1st ed.). Garden City, NY: Anchor Press/Doubleday.
Haney, W. V. (1996). "The Story" (from Uncritical Inference Test, 1955, 1964, 1967). In J. Ray (Ed.), Mental Models Exercise LO10326 http://world.std.com/~lo/96.10/0049.html
Idealist on Campus. (2006). C.O.O.L. Idealist civic engagement curriculum--Identity circles: Developing self-awareness and appreciation for diversity. Retrieved April 11, 2006, from http://www.idealist.org/ioc/learn/curriculum/pdf/Identity-Circles.pdf
Katz, J. H. (1978). White awareness: A handbook for anti-racism training. Norman, OK: University of Oklahoma Press.
Kimmel, M. S., & Ferber, A. L. (2003). Privilege: A reader. Boulder, CO: Westview Press.
Lambert, J., & Myers, S. (2005). Trainer's diversity source book: 50 ready-to-use activities, from icebreakers through wrap ups (1st ed.). Alexandria, VA: Society for Human Resource Management; ASTD.
Landis, D., Bennett, J. M., & Bennett, M. J. (2004). Handbook of intercultural training (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Leigh, J. W. (1998). Communicating for cultural competence. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
McIntosh, P. (1989). White privilege: Unpacking the invisible knapsack http://seamonkey.ed.asu.edu/~mcisaac/emc598ge/Unpacking.html.
O'Sullivan, T. (1994). Key concepts in communication and cultural studies (2nd ed.). London; New York: Routledge.
Rasmussen, T., & American Society for Training and Development. (1996). The ASTD trainer's sourcebook: Diversity. New York: McGraw-Hill.
Rodriguez, N. M., & Villaverde, L. E. (2000). Dismantling white privilege: Pedagogy, politics, and whiteness. New York: P. Lang.
Samovar, L. A., & Porter, R. E. (1997). Intercultural communication: A reader (8th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
Samovar, L. A., Porter, R. E., & Jain, N. C. (1981). Understanding intercultural communication. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
Singelis, T. M. (1998). Teaching about culture, ethnicity & diversity: Exercises and planned activities. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
Wiseman, R. L., & Koester, J. (Eds.). (1993). Intercultural communication competence. Newbury Park: CA: Sage Publications, Inc.
Zhu, Y. (2004). Intercultural training for organizations: The synergistic approach. Development and Learning in Organizations, 18(1), 9.
The variety of books on different cultures help to promote multiculturalism and the politeness of the librarians and the effort they make to understand and respond to the different patrons helps promote diversity
We live in a multicultural world, and the will be no time when patrons will not be multicultural. So creating separate programs for multicultural programs might be helpful to these patrons, but not to the other librarians who have to deal with them. I also think patrons should mingle and attend general library programs; this will help them to adapt to their new environments. If someone comes from Africa and sticks only to those from his/her home, they will never know the reality of how things happen here. Their fellow countrymen will keep trying to make them feel like they are home while the truth is they are away from home
GLBT and disabled individuals should be considered diverse as they are just different for their conditions and not multicultural. An American who is blind does not make him/her not American. The difference is he/she reads Braille while the others read regular print.
I would rather create a program that everyone can learn about different cultures, instead of one which will make multicultural patrons cling to their home ideas.
“Unfortunately, there are many reasons that libraries are not able to offer programming to diverse groups”. I totally disagree with this statement, because I think that this type of philosophy is an “excuse” of why not to help out with the issue of a lack of diversity because there are other “free” ways to reach out. Yet I do agree with the ways presented in which libraries can include minorities. I think that it is important for librarians to be able to communicate effectively with every patron that they encounter. Although libraries are free to the public and anyone can utilize its services, it is a good idea for libraries to be prepared to help any type (and variety) of patrons who may decide to come in for research assistance. At my local library I noticed that minorities are not treated the same as the majority especially in terms of help and courtesy and that there is absolutely no minority staff members (I know because I am a frequent visitor). Libraries such as this one should include more diverse staff members in order to possible better assist and attract minority patrons and create more of a representative image of and for the public in which it serves.
Catherine - Thank you for the wonderful links! They provide a great overview of multiculturalism and diversity in the library and the classroom.
Njang - I like how you put that by attending multicultural programs, individuals can learn and "adapt to their new environments." I think this shows the true teaching nature of libraries by learning about new cultures.
Tiffany - I'm sorry that you feel that funding and a lack of staff, among others, are used as an "excuse." I believe these are very real issues within the field, and to help overcome them, libraries should create a welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds. Have you told your local librarians that you feel they treat minority patrons differently? Maybe by raising awareness about this issue, changes can be made to include all patrons.
Jessica Kay-Oosterhouse
I don't think libraries should create "separate" programs for multicultural patrons. To me multiculturalism and diversity carry the connotation of inclusiveness, and I believe libraries should create programs that promote multiculturalism and diversity but include all.
I do think it is important to consider people with disabilities as part of the multicultural/diverse group, though I must admit that they didn’t immediately come to mind when this subject first came up. They are definitely a group of people who come from a different perspective and culture and they also have a great deal to offer in terms of ideas.
I know that there are many people in the general community of my local library who are deaf. However, I have not seen any accommodations or programs specifically geared toward them. I know a tiny bit of ASL (American Sign Language) and have tried to use it to better communicate with them.
This discussion has brought to mind a simple and forthright way to embrace diversity – simply ask various communities and groups what they are need or would like to see at the library for them. It has been awhile since I have studied deaf culture, but I found it very interesting and I know that there are several things that my local library could do for this group that would cost little to nothing. Asking the minorities that are around us would generate many, many ideas and if a library dedicated part of its staff’s time to focus on this issue a discussion could be initiated and ideas kicked around. I am sure that would get us past many of the challenges becoming diverse holds.
Andrea - I think you make a great point. It is not the idea of multiculturalism/diversity to simply cater to many different groups. However, if we can generate some programs that these groups would appreciate AND encourage the whole of the community to be involved in those programs, then we can all learn a lot about each other. It would also help us to connect to a broader range of our community. Making us more of a community.
Growing up, I was not exposed to different cultures. I found that as I grew and ventured out, that I was unaware of the differences in cultures and the fact that different cultures existed so close to home. I feel that I am a very considerate, understanding, adaptable person, but for some they may have a difficult time familiarizing themselves and adjusting to different cultures. Hence disagreements arise. I feel that if children are exposed to the various cultures at a young age, it will help them getting along and understanding various cultures as they age.
I think one of the best ways to introduce and familiarize people with various cultures is to hold muticultural events. At my school we host a multicultural evening where each grade studies a culture that helps to make up our school. They create a presentation board along with an art project relating to the culture (ie: African masks). Members of the community are also invited to the event. Volunteers are asked to bring in food and artifacts that represent their culture. When people come, they are encouraged to wear clothing from their culture. I think this could be an excellent event for a library to hold, especially if the community is diverse. I know that this helps me become more familiar with lifestyles that exist in my community!
Holly - I didn't think of disabled individuals at first either, but I also believe they should be considered a diverse population with diverse needs. I think it is great that you know ASL (even just a little) in order to communicate with patrons, and probably make them feel welcomed.
Christy - I like your idea about creating programs for children to be exposed to different cultures. By exposing kids to different ideas and ways of life, we would be creating well-rounded, worldly individuals.
Andrea - I think you hit the nail on the head with your comment about promoting diversity but including everyone. By getting ALL patrons involved, we would be developing relationships with people of all backgrounds and hopefully creating a welcoming environment.
Jessica,
No need to be sorry. There are a number of FREE Ways in which libraries can reach out to minorities—which was the point I was trying to make. What about volunteers? They are there to do a free service; why not have the volunteers run after-school library reading programs, for example, for minorities (no funding is involved here)? To use money as an excuse to do absolutely nothing is very sad. Of course people need money but given some free appreciated time could make a lot of good changes. For example, a reading program run by volunteers could help a minority who does not receive help with reading at home do better at school. Also, Holly brings up another excellent point—just asks the surrounding community to help out.
To marginalize my comments as if I am not aware that funding and a lack of staff are important is very unnecessary and not true. Moreover, in reference to your question as to if why I do not bring attention to the racism problem that I observed at my local library insinuates that you assume that I did not—which I have (but I did not want to bring up in discussion). Hope this answers your question(s) (smile).
1. How does your local library promote multiculturalism and diversity?
Considering that I wasn't sure how to answer this question right away proves that my school library doesn't exactly promote multiculturalism. However, I did several searches in our catalog and was surprised by the large number of books that fit this topic. There was good mix between fiction and nonfiction including cookbooks, crafts, holiday celebrations, biographies and the like.
Although my library doesn't provide programming, I know that teachers have assigned projects that are multicultural in nature. Even so, there is such a great collection that most students – nor staff in my case – knew anything about.
Tiffany -
Volunteers are a wonderful (and often untapped) resource. I think they could be great mentors for all patrons.
Regarding the racism at your local library, I didn't mean to offend you. I was just asking if you had confronted the staff about it. I have worked in several customer service positions, and often, patrons don't notify the staff of problems, they tend to leave without the information or service they need.
Jessica Kay-Oosterhouse
Mary, I thought you made a good point in saying that library programs should not leave anyone out. It is my feeling that just as we cannot plan programs that exclude the minority, we cannot plan programs designed solely for one certain minority group. Instead programs should be made with inclusion of all groups in mind.
Something we did recently was offer a children's program on India, in which we had a some a presentation about their culture, we had traditional Indian food, some games and activities and even read some stories. To make this program even more authentic we recruited one of our patrons, who was originally from India, to help us. This program was a great way to expose children to the different culture that maybe some of their friends from school or their friends parents might be a part of. It also helped make the people who hold those cultural traditions in our community feel like they are accpeted and valued.
1. How does your local library promote multiculturalism and diversity?
I wasn't really sure what my local library system does to promote multiculturalism and diversity, so I just checked out their website and was a little disappointed with what I found. I went through the list of events offered at all the branches and did not find many things that I would consider promoting these ideas. There were two different Spanish storytimes for the whole family, but these were not repeated after the first time. There was Talk Time for people learning English. They are invited to come to the library and practice their English with native English speakers. These people also came from the community. I thought this was a great idea because it gets people from different cultures involved together.
The one thing I did know about before looking at the website is the Library for the Blind and Handicapped. My sister has dyslexia and was able to use the services of this library all through her elementary, middle, high, and college schooling. She was given a free tape player and could request tape of different books or textbooks that she needed to read. They also have other services for the blind or people who are unable to come into the library. This is a great resource and one that I'm glad my sister was able to use to help her read. Has anyone else ever seen/used one of these? The one I know is part of the Kent District Library system in Grand Rapids.
2. Should libraries create separate programs for multicultural patrons?
I do not think that these should be considered "separate" programs. I think there should be multicultural programs that are open to all patrons. It is important that everyone learn about different types of people, so we should not limit people to learning or hearing about their own culture/lifestyle. People will never gain respect for other people if we do not expose them to other people in a positive way.
3. Should GLBT and disabled individuals be considered multicultural or diverse?
I think they should be considered part of our library patron base. They are people regardless of their differences and should be treated as such.
4. What are the benefits and drawbacks of programs for multicultural or diverse groups?
I think I've already stated the benefits of these programs. I do not believe there are any drawbacks to these programs. They can always be used in a positive manner.
How does your local library promote multiculturalism and diversity?
We have a display case in the entrance of our library and each month there is a different theme, so months have different culture themes.
2. Should libraries create separate programs for multicultural patrons?
I don't think so we want everyone to be equal. If a program is on a different culture it should be open to all cultures.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of programs for multicultural or diverse groups?
I don't think again there should be program for just one particular culture.
If you could create a multicultural program for your library, what would it be and why?
I would have a program with things from around the world, like tables with crafts from different countries and different foods, and learning stations about their countries. It would be open to everyone.
Jennifer - I like your idea about a "world fair" with crafts and food from around the world. I think it would be a great way to show how different countries are related or interact.
Beth P - It is great that your sister was able to utilize the resources from the library to help with dyslexia. I love KDL! They have so many available resources. The Oakland County Library for the Visually and Physically Impaired offer many services too. They have talking books, magazines on cassette and cassette players.
Thomas - I think it is great that you asked for a patron's help with a program! I'm sure the patron was very honored, and it shows that the library is willing to go out of its staff to find an individual who has the knowledge to create a special experience.
Holli - I'm sorry to hear that your library doesn't promote diversity, but its great to hear about diversity in the collection and that teachers are assigning multicultural projects.
Regarding this entire discussion, I think it is great that libraries are including all populations when creating programming. By doing so, the library can be a welcoming environment for all patrons. Great discussion!
1.How does your local library promote multiculturalism and diversity?
My local library has book lists (recommended reading) for a variety of groups (e.g. Hispanics, the disabled). They have Spanish language materials and collections dedicated to African Americans and Hispanics. In addition, they celebrate Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, etc.
2. Should libraries create separate programs for multicultural patrons?
Libraries should have programs aimed at different groups as long as anyone in the community is invited to attend. This will increase interest in library programs and services. It will also allow people to learn about different cultures and people. It seems like a win-win situation.
5. If you could create a multicultural program for your library, what would it be and why?
It would have to be something about Middle Eastern or Asian cultures. Those two seem to receive the least amount of attention and often are the least understood. Creating a program about either group would make them feel more welcome in the library.
How does your local library promote multiculturalism and diversity?
Ann Arbor District Library offers a great number of different resources that promote multiculturalism and diversity. First, just a glance at their website and you will notice at the upper right hand corner that the site may be viewed in six different languages. Their website is also dressed in a blog format that allows members to comment and voice their opinion. The community blog on the website is a great source for diversity as employees highlight a vast variety of community events, services, and projects to take advantage of, it's really great!
2. Should libraries create separate programs for multicultural patrons?
This is a tricky question in my mind, because I often feel that creating separate programs for specific groups tends to exclude other groups. Some people may even consider this a form of discrimination. There should be some sort of balance between library programs, so that the library offers a little something for everybody. I also think that a program aimed at one group of people, should also serve others group and encourage their participation.
3. Should GLBT and disabled individuals be considered multicultural or diverse?
I think disabled and special needs individuals add diversity to any situation. They bring different experiences and perspectives to a situation or conversation.
Should libraries create separate programs for multicultural patrons?
In order for multicultural patrons to feel welcomed in a library they must feel as though they belong to that library. I feel creating “separate” programs for multicultural patrons may make them feel even more unwelcomed than before. These programs may isolate them from the rest of the patrons or shine a spotlight on them making them feel uncomfortable. I do think creating programs that will attract patrons from various cultures would be a good idea. These programs could highlight different cultures but be opened to all patrons so they can learn more about various cultures and enjoy the festivities.
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