Library Advocacy Work by Library Workers of Color

to Raymond Pun, Instruction and Research Librarian at the Alder Graduate School of Education

About

91´«Ã½

This exploratory research aims to highlight experiences and stories of library workers of color who participate in library advocacy work in the local and/or national levels- what are their priorities and interests, and how do they get involved in advocacy work in a profession that is predominantly White? The study applies critical race theory to frame the social relationships and the structure of inequities inherent in library advocacy work by exploring the narratives and perspectives of library workers of color. This research will address the following questions: 1. Are there common characteristics and values of library workers of color involved in library advocacy work? 2. What are the potential barriers experienced by these workers? By bringing awareness to these barriers and the perceptions of library workers of color, this qualitative study seeks to understand how the library advocacy world can become inclusive and will support library workers of color in their efforts to advocate and champion their libraries and communities at large.

Awards Won

Title Year
Diversity Research Grant

91´«Ã½

The 91´«Ã½ Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services sponsors this grant program which began in 2002 to address critical gaps in the knowledge of equity, diversity, and inclusion issues within library and information science.

2020 - Winner(s)