New ACRL publication: Librarians Serving Diverse Populations

Contact: Kathryn Deiss


ACRL Content Strategist


(312) 280-2529


kdeiss@ala.org

NEWS


For Immediate Release


February 9, 2010

CHICAGO – The Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) announces the publication of a new title,“Librarians Serving Diverse Populations.” Written by Lori Mestre, associate professor of Library Administration at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, “Librarians Serving Diverse Populations” is a qualitative and quantitative assessment and research study examining the paths and experiences of librarians whose duties include serving diverse cultures. Through surveys, interviews and evaluation of documents, Mestre explores issues and challenges related to the duties and responsibilities of multicultural librarians. The title sheds light on the challenges faced in serving diverse populations, including the organization and management of diversity services




This groundbreaking study of diversity librarianship in academic libraries offers recommendations for libraries seeking to fill diversity librarian positions, provide follow-up training and support after hiring new librarians and strengthen diversity efforts. Also included are two chapters providing guidance for academic librarians getting started as a liaison for diversity and cross-cultural efforts. Mestre additionally provides suggestions for improvements to curricula and training in library and information science programs.




Purchase “Librarians Serving Diverse Populations” through the ALA Online Store (
http://www.alastore.ala.org) and by telephone order at (866) 746-7252 in the U.S. or (770) 442-8633 for international customers




***




The Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) is a division of the American Library Association, representing more than 12,500 academic and research librarians and interested individuals. ACRL is the only individual membership organization in North America that develops programs, products and services to meet the unique needs of academic and research librarians. Its initiatives enable the higher education community to understand the role that academic libraries play in the teaching, learning and research environments. ACRL is on the Web at
http://www.acrl.org/.