According to the Diverse BookFinder’s analysis of Reed Library’s children’s collection, work could be done to improve the inclusivity of materials. Graduate intern Sara Stahl was tasked with identifying books to add to the collection that represent more diverse identities of race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality. Preliminary research revealed that libraries should take several key steps in diversifying their children’s collections, including:
- Providing representation of all groups, not just those demographics most present in the local community
- Recognizing diversity within groups
- Finding books that emphasize positive cross-group relationships
- Offering different kinds of representation for each group
- Checking the authors’ backgrounds, as well as the publication date, to ensure that the material is accurate, culturally sensitive, and up to date
With these recommendations in mind, Sarah proceeded to select books she felt would best fit the requirements for good representation. By focusing on award-winning titles, as well as titles frequently found on book recommendation lists, she sought to find fun, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant books.