Intercultural Competence for Community College Librarians

Abstract

As populations grow more diverse and different cultural identities become increasingly prevalent, intercultural competence will be a requirement for successful communication and cultural harmony. Community colleges host the most diverse population of students in the United States, often considered a reflection of the communities they serve. As centers of institutional learning, libraries at community colleges have a responsibility and an opportunity to provide service grounded in the tenets of intercultural competence. These service standards are having and following a diversity policy; providing a welcoming and accessible environment; offering services and materials that match students needs and backgrounds; communicating in a way that is "culturally humble;" and lastly, hiring practices that ensure a diverse staff.