Collection Development
Hamilton College Library Collections and DEI
Article I of the Library Bill of Rights includes the statement: “Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves.”
A diverse and inclusive collection should contain content by and about a wide array of people and cultures to authentically reflect a variety of ideas, information, stories, and experiences. LITS collection development librarians seek resources which exemplify this standard. This means acquiring materials to address curricular needs and direct community input, as well as addressing collection gaps and unexpressed information needs. Developing a diverse collection requires:
- selecting content in multiple formats;
- considering resources from self-published, independent, small, and local producers;
- seeking content created by and representative of marginalized and underrepresented groups;
- evaluating how diverse collection resources are cataloged, labeled, and displayed;
- including content in all of the languages used in the community that the library serves, when possible; and
- that meet the needs of users with disabilities.
Adapted from
“Diverse Collections: An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights.” American Library Association, July 26, 2006. (Accessed April 21, 2020). Document ID: 73f91c8d-ec1c-1e24-7d16-910de935ad33.
Other Resources:
Hamilton College Library Collections Guidelines
ALA Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services
ACRL Diversity Standards: Cultural Competency for Academic Libraries
Contact
Nhora Lucía Serrano, Ph.D.
Director of Learning and Research Services
