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Evaluation & Programming
In order to create effective and diverse library programming, careful evaluation is necessary. Developing Inclusive Children’s Library Programs (InfoBase, 2023), Ways to Make Your Performances, Book Clubs and Maker Programs Accessible (ALA, 2023), and Programming to Promote Diversity (ALA, n.d.) all emphasize the importance of diverse programming and discuss how to implement this in public libraries, while Library User Surveys: A How-To Guide (n.d.) and the book Five steps of outcome based planning and evaluation for public libraries (Gross, 2016) offer practical guidance and criteria for how to analyze programming to ensure that it is effective and inclusive of the chosen community group.
Applying Universal Design principles to programs in order to support patrons who may have disabilities through material and resources in varying formats and reading levels is a key aspect of making a welcoming library space, while promotion of intersectional library partners that address the specific needs of a chosen community helps with creating a diverse space where all patrons can find themselves represented. Following the framework set forth by Gross (2016) for evaluating programs for efficacy is necessary to ensure that patrons are being served in the ways they choose, and learning how to design and administer relevant and accurate surveys is integral to following this outcome based process. These resources emphasize the importance of patron feedback and integration when creating programs. Making displays about heritage events such as Diwali or the Festival Lights with books for different ages about these events. Having a storytime dedicated to learning about Indian history and how Indian Americans have contributed to our culture is another way that the library could highlight Indian culture and heritage. Partnering with a local Indian business such as a restaurant, nonprofit or museum to increase appreciation of Indian heritage is also a good idea.
What is Intersectionality?
Intersectionality is a concept introduced by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw in the late 1980s that examines the way in which different aspects of a person's social and identity characteristics such as race, gender, class, sexuality, and disability interact to create experiences of privilege or oppression. Within libraries, intersectionality plays an important role in shaping how services are designed, how materials are curated, and how access to information is provided. By recognizing and addressing intersectionality, libraries can better serve diverse communities and ensure that their services are equitable and inclusive. While library services and programs are often designed with broad user groups in mind, these programs may not always account for the ways in which people's identities intersect (Ettarh, n.d.). For example, a woman of color with a disability may experience barriers to library access that are different from those faced by a white woman, a man of color, or a nondisabled person. By incorporating an intersectional approach, libraries can ensure that they meet the needs of all patrons, especially those who may be marginalized or excluded.
These videos break down intersectionality and discuss its importance and relevance:
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