American Library Association and Gallup release new diversity study

CHICAGO – The American Library Association, in partnership with Gallup, released a new study highlighting areas of growth for improving diversity across the library field.

The study titled Empowering Voices, Inspiring Change: Advancing Diversity Within Librarianship draws on qualitative research from 50 library professionals representing various genders, race, tenures, ages, and geography. A full explanation of the methodology can be found in the report.

This report aims to learn from the experiences of librarians from underrepresented groups, inspire solutions to foster and support a more diverse group of library professionals and offer ideas for future research.

Seven key findings emerged:

1. For library professionals, “diversity” is a complex term. Understanding its nuances can help focus and advance the diversification of librarianship.
2. Increasing awareness and education about librarianship can create a stronger foundation — and, theoretically, a more diverse pipeline — for the future of the profession.
3. Mentorship is invaluable. Developing more and larger networks of mentorship can support librarians and break down navigational challenges that traditionally — and disproportionately — impact underrepresented communities.
4. Creating a positive workplace culture and providing managerial training can strengthen onboarding experiences, foster inclusion and encourage culture change within libraries.
5. Librarians need support from leadership, both from their direct supervisors and their institutions.
6. Professional development and compensation must be considered when evaluating retention efforts.
7. Future diversity efforts should consider both micro- and macro-level approaches. Micro-level approaches follow a bottom-up framing with support from individuals and local-level libraries. Macro-level approaches rely on a top-down framing with more organizational and institutional support.

“ALA encourages the field to deeply reflect on the perspectives and voices captured in this report. We know that the demographics haven’t shifted in the ways in which we would hope them to, but more importantly, this magnifies the why,” ALA President Cindy Hohl said. “It allows for real transformation to take place and that starts with defining who we are on this path, today.”

The findings of this report set the foundation to allow for new and innovative projects, continuing education, more professional development opportunities for library workers, and establishing research initiatives that speak to the various identities of this profession.

The ALA Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services will continue this effort to secure the necessary resources to deepen this research and build the foundations to sustain our mission of diversifying librarianship

About Gallup

Gallup is a global analytics and advisory firm known for its expertise in public opinion research and data-driven insights. For over 80 years, Gallup has helped leaders worldwide address pressing challenges with actionable research and analysis.

About the American Library Association

The American Library Association (ALA) is the only non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated entirely to America's libraries and library professionals. For almost 150 years, ALA has provided resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. The ALA serves academic, public, school, government, and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library's role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.