Collection Diversification
As part of our commitment to the University Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, we are exploring how the resources in our collections and on reading lists can better reflect the diversity of our communities as well as support inclusive and equitable curriculum design. In 2023 we launched the Library Collection Diversification Project which is aimed at bringing together colleagues and students from across the University to start talking about these issues and working together to enhance the diversity of our library collections.
Why have we launched this initiative?
Research at the University of Kent and elsewhere nationally has shown that reading list resources that reflect the diversity of the study body can improve engagement, enhance critical thinking and help students to develop key graduate attributes. Enhancing the diversity and inclusivity of library resources can also support students to develop a sense of belonging.
Furthermore, the Library and Learning Services Collection Development & Management Policy sets out how we aim to “develop diverse, accessible, and inclusive collections” and we are committed to taking proactive steps that will help us to achieve this.
What have we done so far?
Last year we launched our student facing campaign “Does the University Library represent you?” aimed at raising awareness about the project and encouraging students to share their thoughts via a short survey. You can learn more by reading this blog post, and if you are a student, sharing your views: Library Collections Diversification Project – Library & Learning Services
We have been working with our suppliers to add more diverse ebook content to our collections for you to discover and explore.
We have created these web pages to provide a hub for information about the project which in future will include help and guidance for academics who are interested in diversifying their reading lists.
How can I recommend a diverse resource?
Have you found a resource that could enhance the diversity of our library collections? Then we want to hear from you! Use the links below to request titles that will help us to develop our collections to better reflect the cultural diversity of our University.
You Want It We Get It (for books supporting academic studies)
Reading for Pleasure Request Form (for non-academic and fiction reading)
Future Plans
We will continue to work closely with our suppliers to make it easier for us to purchase a broader range of diverse and inclusive materials, as well as looking at how we can improve the discoverability of diverse eresource content that we already subscribe to or that is available openly. If there are specific publishers or academic presses that you think we should purchase from then please let us know.
We are continuing to develop these web pages with useful information and links to other relevant resources. Please get in touch if there is something you would like us to include and check back regularly for updates.
For other questions or to get more involved in the project, please contact Anna Franca