Cultural Diversity in Libraries - Softcover

The contributors to this anthology work or have worked for the University of Michigan's libraries. Because those libraries are recognized for their diversity program, they are able to provide a source of expertise and experience on diversity that probably cannot be bettered. Indeed, the great variety of topics and practical details the book covers makes it a virtual how-to-do-it-from-those-who-have-done-it resource. It considers the entire gamut of aspects that diversity programming in libraries affects: hiring, retention, collection development, exhibits, customer service, supervision, and the role of the diversity librarian. Three contributions deserve special notice: Patricia Tarin's short introduction, which is both elegant and inspirational; Vivian Sykes' "Perspectives on Cultural Diversity," arguably the best primer on this topic in the professional literature to date; and Charles Ransom's "The Diversity Librarian," which answers well the questions "What is a diversity librarian?" and "What does a diversity librarian do?" Highly recommended for all professional collections. Charles Harmon

This collection of essays joins the growing body of diversity literature to offer a range of background material and practical information. In large part it draws from the experiences of the University of Michigan Library in recruiting a culturally diverse staff and in offering collections, services, and programs for diverse users. Two themes emerge: demographic trends have brought the nation to a multicultural reality, and therefore to cultivate diversity is to survive economically; also, the success of a diversity program depends on the commitment of the library's top administration. This book emanates from a leading library in the cultural diversity movement. It will be a useful purchase for administrators on all levels and for individuals and committees concerned with diversity issues.
Martin Jamison, Ohio State Univ. Libs., Columbus
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.