Addressing cultural diversity in academic and research libraries

Abstract

This article discusses the current state of cultural diversity in U.S. academic research libraries. It reports the results of a survey undertaken by the author in 1990 and mailed to the directors of 104 U.S. Association of Research Libraries member libraries. The survey asked about cultural diversity in research libraries in relation to recruitment of librarians, services to students, and collection development. Recent studies suggest research libraries must be prepared to examine their practices and make adjustments if they wish to provide quality service to all clientele. Results of the survey indicate that overall, research libraries are making increased efforts to create a more culturally diverse environment. More sustained effort is needed to attract underrepresented minorities to the research library work force. This article discusses the efforts being made and offers several suggestions to assist research libraries in their attempts to become truly multicultural institutions.