We recognize that libraries and archives are not the neutral spaces they were intended to be. We strive to dismantle the systemic racism and anti-BIPOC culture that has permeated libraries and archives by examining our own collections, physical spaces, programming, systems, methodologies, and values in order to work towards creating a truly equitable space.

 

In order to become antiracist and change the culture of our library we pledge to:

 

• Actively engage in antiracist and diversity professional development opportunities that will deepen our understanding of systemic racism, enable us to have uncomfortable conversations, listen to all perspectives, and grow as individuals. This work will hold us accountable and empower us to take actions for our BIPOC and diverse community members.

 

• Examine, evaluate, and alter the language that we use to catalog our collections, teach research instruction, promote our programming, create policies, and in our everyday conversations with our community members to ensure that we are accessible, welcoming, and equitable with our words in our everyday interactions.

 

• Evaluate our current collection (physical and digital), its purpose, and its growth; pay particular attention to how books are organized, how they are represented in our collection, and where they physically live; and strengthen our collection with more authors of color, women, trans, and non-binary and gender nonconforming individuals. 

 

• Deepen the experience for our students and faculty by creating an inclusive, safe, and welcoming library space (whether that be virtual or in-person) where all community members are seen and supported.

 

• Provide and create equal access to resources, services, programs, and events that support diversity, equity, inclusion, social justice, and an antiracist environment.

 

• Support the work of the Diversity, Inclusion, and Global Education department at Buckingham Browne and Nichols by participating in its programming, collaborating when appropriate, and sharing resources that support its work to promote antiracism education and dismantling systemic racism in our school.

 

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with our diverse BB&N community. 

 

• Continually reevaluate and reassess where we are as individuals, and as librarians and archivists, in this journey to become antiracist. 

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This work will become part of our everyday practice and will inform all of our work inside and outside of BB&N moving forward.