Championing Change: The EDI Scholars-in-Residence Program at UBC Library

October 21, 2024Peer-Reviewed Articleacademic libraries, Canada, diversity, Equity, Inclusion, programming, University of British ColumbiaEditor

By Allan Cho, Community Engagement Librarian, University of British Columbia (UBC) Library

Lisabelle Tan, Master’s in Library and Information Studies (MLIS) Candidate, University of British Columbia, School of Information

Abstract

The University of British Columbia (UBC) Library’s EDI Scholars in Residence Program, initiated in 2022, addresses equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in academia. This innovative program fosters inclusivity by providing scholars from historically marginalized backgrounds with research opportunities and access to library resources. The article explores the program’s genesis, principles, and impact, highlighting its significance in dismantling systemic barriers. A review of EDI concepts and institutional strategies underscores the importance of nuanced approaches. By promoting collaboration and research, the program exemplifies a transformative initiative in advancing EDI within academic libraries and higher education institutions.

Keywords: Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Academic Libraries, Programming
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Fostering the Whole Librarian: The Evolution of Professional and Psychosocial Mentoring

August 28, 2024Peer-Reviewed Articlelibrarianship, mentoring, mentoring programs, professional mentoring, psychosocial mentoringEditor

By Blair Booker
Distance Education Librarian
Mississippi State University Libraries

Abstract

Since the 1970’s, librarianship has boasted varied mentoring experiences supporting the lifespan of information professionals. The evolution of such efforts shows formal beginnings that have morphed into a smattering of various formal and informal programs across a spectrum of libraries and institutions. Psychosocial support has emerged as an integral aspect of development for library professionals. For a modern holistic approach to mentoring, professional and psychosocial mentoring should work hand in hand to foster the librarian as a whole.

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Libraries as Potential Key Players in Nigeria’s Economic Diversity and Exchange Rate Solutions

May 9, 2024Essayeconomic development, entrepreneurship, exchange rates, financial literacy, Nigeria, policy reform, public librariesEditor

By Adebowale Jeremy Adetayo,
Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria,

Muhammed Jamiu Soliudeen,
Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti. Ekiti State,

Arinola Oluwatoyin Gbotoso,
Federal College of Agriculture Akure Ondo State,

and Oyekanmi Gabriel Okediji,
Federal College of Education Iwo Library, Osun State.

Abstract

As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria grapples with systemic challenges including exchange rate volatilities, rising inequality and pervasive poverty constraining inclusive growth. This paper explores the overlooked potential of public libraries to address these multidimensional issues through their expansive reach, accessibility and community trust. Specifically, it delineates five pathways of impact: providing access to economic data and research to inform policy decisions; fostering financial literacy among citizens through workshops on personal finance and exchange rate mechanics; supporting entrepreneurship and export competitiveness with tailored advisory services; catalyzing grassroots advocacy coalitions to drive equitable growth reforms; and forging strategic partnerships with diverse institutions to integrate interdisciplinary perspectives. By highlighting these avenues for libraries to collaborate with academia, industry, government and non-profits, this analysis underscores the merits of increased investment into library infrastructure, technology access and programming to maximize their development contributions. It calls upon policymakers to formally recognize libraries’ change-agent role across literacy promotion, business enablement, community mobilization and localizing policy solutions.

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Shelving the Status Quo: Improving the Student Employment Experience at Penfield Library

April 20, 2024Peer-Reviewed Articlediversity, management, student employees, students, supervisionEditor

By Morgan Bond, Electronic Resources and Systems Librarian
State University of New York at Oswego,

Erin Kovalsky, Principal Law Librarian
New York State Unified Court System,

and

Zachary Vickery, University Archivist Librarian
State University of New York at Oswego

Abstract

Student employment in academic libraries supports the overall student experience by both complementing traditional studies, and bolstering students’ sense of belonging. Three librarians at a regional comprehensive university worked to create and implement a Library Employment Program for college students in an effort to align with university and library missions, visions, and values. A critical examination of processes across four library units led to changes to the application process, onboarding materials, evaluative tools, and an increased focus on career preparation. Effectiveness of the changes were mixed; while positive results were observed with the adoption of a new recruitment platform and a more inclusive student employment handbook, new evaluative tools were difficult for student supervisors to use consistently, and students struggled with communicating transferable job skills. Creating a library-wide Student Employment Program offers opportunities to develop and utilize consistent practices for all student supervisors to follow, but generating buy-in can be difficult and time-consuming before demonstrable results are observed.

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