How Can Cataloging and Collection Development Help Create an Inclusive Library Experience?

Tuesday, 10/19/2021 - Wednesday, 10/20/2021
  • 10:00 AM-6:00 PM (Eastern)
  • 9:00 AM-5:00 PM (Central)
  • 8:00 AM-4:00 PM (Mountain)
  • 7:00 AM-3:00 PM (Pacific)

This e-Forum was presented on Tuesday, October 19 and Wednesday, October 20. View the summary of this e-Forum.

Being able to see ourselves represented is very important in different aspects of our lives. This also holds true for patrons and libraries. For libraries to continue to make an impact and stay relevant in the information realm, we must provide patrons with access to information that represents them while also exposing them to differing viewpoints and historical context. Achieving this goal requires thoughtful examination of our catalog and collection. The way people and subjects are described in the catalog and the content and diversity of available material affect the people who use the library. Can patrons access material that feels relevant to their story or interests? Will the collection leave them unaware of the history or contributions of people that do not reflect the majority? Join this e-Forum to discuss this and other questions with fellow librarians to better understand how to best serve all of our patrons.

Learning Outcomes

In this e-Forum, attendees will explore:

● the benefits of an equitable and inclusive library for both the library and the patron.
● how cataloging can contribute to a positive user experience for all.
● the role of material selection and weeding in providing an inclusive experience.

Who Should Attend

Catalogers and librarians involved in collection development. Librarians interested in helping to create a more inclusive and diverse collection. Recent library school graduates that want to know more about diversifying a collection.

Hosts

Kelly Williams was born and raised in the Central Texas area. She has a Master of Science in Educational Psychology from Texas A&M University-Central Texas and a Master of Science in Library Science from the University of North Texas. She’s spent most of her library career working in the technical services departments of academic libraries but recently made a change to reference services. Having a background in both technical and reference services, in public and academic libraries, exposed her to how removing bias improves not only the catalog but also patron overall satisfaction with library services as a whole.

Jennifer Batson has been the head of cataloging at an academic library for six years and has experience in both an academic and public library setting. In addition to her MLS from Texas Woman’s University, she has a BS in Education and an MA in Humanities. She has taken professional development classes in areas such as student retention, subject analysis, active learning, and informal learning. These subjects inform her work to create a catalog and library collection that allows all patrons to feel welcome and represented.

Registration

Cost

Free

How to Register

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Code of Conduct

Please review the Statement of Conduct before registering.

Tech Requirements

Internet connection with email address. You can manage your subscription to this list following the online instructions.

Credits

None

Contact

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