The Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce that we have contracted with ALA to provide our members with access to their live webinars.  These webinars are free to MLS members who register through our calendar.  Please do not register directly with ALA. Members who register directly with ALA are responsible for paying their registration fee. 

Please help us keep MLS sponsored training free for all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar, please cancel your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation email, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to cancel. 

Description

To ensure that your library’s collection represents the entire community, it is essential to periodically evaluate the representation included in your materials, assess gaps, and create new processes to meet your community’s needs. Implementing a diversity audit is critical to understanding the current state of your collection and will lead the way as you develop plans to expand, improve, and adapt your collection.

In this webinar, learn how to create and conduct a diversity audit, evaluate materials for inclusivity, and develop strategies for library users to find diverse materials in the collection. You’ll leave this webinar with concrete, step-by-step instructions on conducting a diversity audit and using your findings to improve your collection.

Learning Outcomes

After participating in this event, participants will:

• Be able to implement a comprehensive diversity audit of their collection.
• Have a strong understanding of how to evaluate materials for inclusivity.
• Be able to develop strategies for library users to find diverse materials in their collections.

Presenters

Shoshana Frank is the Student Engagement Librarian at Aurora University. When not reviewing for Booklist or judging National Book Awards, Shoshana cultivates student success through workshops, campus wide events, craft programs, and book discussions. Outside of work, Shoshana is an avid volunteer, social justice advocate, and world traveler.

Nicole Lawton is a Children's Librarian & Outreach Coordinator at the Downers Grove Public Library. Nicole is passionate about diversity in Children’s Literature and shares her passion for this topic by facilitating workshops for pre-service teachers at North Central College.

Accessibility Information

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.