Libraries as Memory Institutions: Transforming into Adaptive Learning Organizations

Memory institutions, libraries, museums, and archives ensure cultural and historical records remain accessible and relevant for future generations. In the digital age, the boundaries between these institutions blur as they all manage diverse formats, including physical artifacts, digital data, and social media records. Libraries can collaborate with museums and archives to offer a comprehensive approach to cultural stewardship, creating a unified user experience where visitors can engage with diverse materials and perspectives.

Libraries must adopt flexible operational frameworks encouraging continuous learning and adaptation to meet users' changing needs. Embracing the principles of a learning organization allows libraries to respond effectively to evolving user needs and technological advancements. By fostering a culture of reflection, experimentation, and open communication, libraries can create an environment where all staff members contribute to decision-making and innovation.

Data-driven insights are crucial in guiding library strategies and ensuring that core mission activities remain relevant and impactful. By analyzing usage patterns and other metrics, libraries can identify areas for improvement, optimize services, and pilot new technologies. This data-driven approach allows libraries to balance tradition and innovation, preserving legacy materials while incorporating new knowledge and digital content.

Through collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and a commitment to continuous learning, libraries can position themselves as dynamic centers of knowledge and culture. By embracing their roles as memory institutions and learning organizations, libraries can adapt to the ever-changing information and technology landscape, ensuring that they remain relevant and valuable resources for their communities.

Furthermore, the digital age's interconnectedness of libraries, museums, and archives presents collaborative initiatives and shared resource opportunities. For example, libraries can partner with museums to host exhibitions that showcase historical artifacts alongside relevant books and documents, providing visitors a richer and more immersive experience. Similarly, libraries can work with archives to digitize and preserve historical materials, making them more accessible to researchers and the public.

Technology also plays a crucial role in expanding the reach and impact of memory institutions. Libraries can leverage digital tools and platforms to create virtual exhibitions, online collections, and interactive educational resources. These initiatives can engage a wider audience, including those who may not have the opportunity to visit physical locations. Additionally, libraries can use technology to facilitate remote access to resources, enabling users to conduct research and explore collections from anywhere in the world.

In conclusion, libraries, museums, and archives are essential cultural and intellectual heritage pillars. By embracing their roles as memory institutions and learning organizations and leveraging technology and collaboration, these institutions can navigate the complexities of the digital age and continue to serve as vital resources for future generations. By preserving the past, embracing the present, and shaping the future, libraries, museums, and archives will remain beacons of knowledge, culture, and community.

Catalog Pull Platform: Harnessing the Power of Pull in Modern Library Systems

 The Catalog Pull Platform represents a forward-thinking approach to library technology. It embraces "pull" dynamics rather than traditional "push" models. The concept of "pull platforms," as articulated in The Power of Pull by John Hagel III and John Seely Brown, underscores how users' needs drive system design rather than developers and administrators predefining solutions in isolation.

A pull platform is characterized by its modularity, flexibility, and responsiveness. Traditional "push" systems assume that designers know what users want in advance; the software is built and "pushed" out to them. The Catalog Pull Platform, by contrast, "pulls" features and services based on real-world patron interactions, making it possible to pivot or adapt swiftly when user demands change. This means libraries can release more minor, incremental updates, gather feedback, and refine their offerings in short development cycles.

At the heart of the pull model is the empowerment of patrons and end-users in shaping the platform's evolution. Instead of being bound by exhaustive planning documents that attempt to predict all future needs, the development process encourages experimentation, testing, and transparent communication with the user base. Software teams focus on building core services while making it straightforward for contributors to add new modules. By reducing the complexity of inter-module dependencies, a pull platform accommodates customization. This empowers library staff and patrons to configure systems that fit their unique institutional workflows, making them integral to the process.

The push vs. pull contrast becomes most apparent when libraries update or expand their integrated systems. In a push environment, a set of library modules—be they cataloging, circulation, or digital repository—undergo static releases. Then, librarians must align new requirements to these monolithic, infrequent upgrades. Suppose a feature is missing or does not respond well to user feedback. Months or years might pass before a vendor or software team implements an improvement. In that case, vital user data, such as search logs, user preferences, or circulation trends, are remade.

The underutilized pull model operates in real time, reversing the process of system updates. Modules in the Catalog Pull Platform are discreet, loosely coupled services that communicate through standard APIs. Patrons' needs or shifts in institutional priorities directly inform the development of new modules. If there is a high demand for an advanced analytics dashboard to track circulation patterns, a small team can prototype a tool that taps into existing APIs. Once tested, refined, and validated by user feedback, this feature goes live with minimal disruption to the broader library system. Iterations occur frequently, allowing the library to address evolving needs in near-real time, providing a sense of reassurance and confidence in the system's adaptability.

By leveraging the inherent strengths of a pull-based system, libraries remain agile. This approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and collaborative problem-solving—qualities that resonate strongly with the mission of connecting people and ideas. The Catalog Pull Platform, therefore, offers more than a technology shift: it encourages librarians, staff, and patrons to co-create a flexible library environment, ensuring that services are perpetually aligned with genuine, immediate user requirements. This collaborative nature of the pull model makes the audience feel connected and part of a shared mission.

DEIA Calendar 2025: Key Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Observances

DEIA Calendar 2025: Celebrating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

February

Black History Month (U.S. & Canada) – February 1–28
Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans and Canadians while honoring their rich history. This month serves as a reminder of the resilience, struggles, and accomplishments of the Black community. Learn more.

World Day of Social Justice – February 20
The World Day of Social Justice, observed on February 20, is a crucial reminder of the need to promote efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, and unemployment. It aims to foster equal opportunities and a just society for all.

March

Zero Discrimination Day – March 1
Zero Discrimination Day calls for eliminating discrimination in all its forms. It promotes inclusivity and equal treatment, regardless of background, gender, race, or identity.

International Women’s Day – March 8
International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women while advocating for gender parity. It serves as a call to action for accelerating gender equality worldwide.

National Deaf History Month – March 13 – April 15
National Deaf History Month highlights the achievements and contributions of people who are Deaf and hard of hearing, promoting awareness and inclusivity.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination – March 21
This UN-recognized day promotes efforts to fight racial bias and discrimination, encouraging societies to embrace diversity and inclusion.

World Down Syndrome Day – March 21
World Down Syndrome Day increases global awareness about Down Syndrome and advocates for the rights and well-being of people with Down Syndrome.

International Transgender Day of Visibility – March 31
International Transgender Day of Visibility celebrates transgender people and raises awareness about the discrimination and challenges they face worldwide.

April

World Autism Awareness Day – April 2
World Autism Awareness Day promotes acceptance and inclusion of individuals on the autism spectrum, advocating for equal rights and opportunities.

International Romani Day – April 8
International Romani Day celebrates Romani culture and brings awareness to the discrimination faced by the Romani people.

Day of Silence (Exact Date Varies) – Mid/Late April
The Day of Silence is a student-led event where participants remain silent to protest anti-LGBTQ+ bullying and harassment.

May

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month – May 1–31
AAPI Heritage Month honors the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Mental Health Awareness Month – May 1–31
Mental Health Awareness Month focuses on the importance of mental health and advocates for equitable access to care.

Global Accessibility Awareness Day – May 15
Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) promotes digital accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities.

International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia – May 17
This observance raises awareness of LGBTQ+ rights violations and encourages the global fight against discrimination.

June

Pride Month – June 1–30
Pride Month celebrates LGBTQ+ history, culture, and activism through parades, education, and community events.

Juneteenth – June 19
Juneteenth marks the end of slavery in the United States and honors African American freedom and achievement.

World Refugee Day – June 20
World Refugee Day highlights the courage and resilience of people forced to flee their home countries.

July

Disability Pride Month – July 1–31
Disability Pride Month celebrates the contributions and identities of people with disabilities while advocating for accessibility and inclusion.

International Non-Binary People’s Day – July 14
This day raises awareness about non-binary identities and challenges faced by non-binary individuals.

August

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples – August 9
This observance recognizes Indigenous cultures, rights, and contributions.

Women’s Equality Day – August 26
Women’s Equality Day commemorates the adoption of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote.

December

International Day of Persons with Disabilities – December 3
This day promotes the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

Human Rights Day – December 10
Human Rights Day marks the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

DEIA for Libraries: Inclusive Practices & Alternatives for Librarians

 DEIA for Libraries: Inclusive Practices & Alternatives for Librarians

Below is a DEIA-inspired thesaurus adjusted for librarians who may need to address concepts of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in more neutral or subtle language. Each concept is paired with library-oriented synonyms or alternative phrases to help convey the same ideas without explicitly using specific DEIA terms. Practical library examples are included to show how these ideas apply in daily operations.

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Accessibility

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “User-Friendly Experience”
  • “Barrier-Free Access”
  • “Inclusive Services”

Library Context:

• Designing library websites and digital resources that patrons of various abilities can use without specialized tools.
• Ensuring aisles, shelves, restrooms, and reading areas accommodate patrons using wheelchairs or mobility devices.

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Affinity Group

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Peer Network”
  • “Support Group”
  • “Professional Community”

Library Context:

• Forming a “Children’s Literacy Network” among staff who focus on youth programming.
• Creating a “Tech Champions Group” to support staff learning new technologies.

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Ally / Allyship

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Supportive Partnerships”
  • “Collaborative Efforts”
  • “Advocacy in Action”

Library Context:

• Partnering with community organizations to ensure marginalized residents have access to educational resources.
• Standing up for colleagues or patrons when they face unfair treatment or barriers.

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Belonging

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Community Connection”
  • “Inclusive Atmosphere”
  • “Sense of Welcome”

Library Context:

• Creating seating areas that encourage patrons to stay, meet, and connect.
• Offering activities that celebrate local traditions and cultures.

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Bias (Conscious or Unconscious)

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Preconceived Notions”
  • “Unexamined Assumptions”
  • “Inherent Tendencies”

Library Context:

• Examining how personal preferences might shape collection development or reference recommendations.
• Reviewing hiring practices to ensure candidate selection is based on qualifications, not stereotypes.

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BIPOC / People of Color

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Community Members from Diverse Backgrounds”
  • “Patrons of Various Cultural Identities”
  • “Racially and Ethnically Varied Populations”

Library Context:

• Outreach programs to engage community members of various cultural backgrounds.
• Curating collections that reflect literature and experiences of multiple racial and ethnic groups.

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Cultural Competence / Cultural Humility

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Community Awareness”
  • “Cultural Literacy”
  • “Ongoing Learning About Patrons’ Needs”

Library Context:

• Training sessions on the cultural traditions of your local community to guide reference services.
• Building awareness that library events and communication may need to be adapted for different language or cultural norms.

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Diversity

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Broad Representation”
  • “Variety in Perspectives”
  • “Wide-Ranging Voices and Identities”

Library Context:

• Seeking out materials from small publishers or lesser-known authors to broaden the collection.
• Encouraging staff with different skill sets and backgrounds to share their expertise.

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Equity

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Fair Access”
  • “Balanced Opportunities”
  • “Appropriate Resource Allocation”

Library Context:

• Distributing library budget so each branch can meet unique neighborhood needs (e.g., technology vs. children’s programming).
• Implementing fine forgiveness or flexible loan policies for low-income patrons.

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Equality

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Same Treatment for All”
  • “Uniform Standards”

Library Context:

• Having consistent library policies across all branches regarding open hours or computer usage.
• Recognizing that uniform rules may need complementary “Fair Access” measures to address different needs.

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Historically Underrepresented / Marginalized Groups

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Underserved Populations”
  • “Communities Needing Additional Support”
  • “Groups Facing Systemic Barriers”

Library Context:

• Considering multilingual signage and translation services for non-English-speaking patrons.
• Offering mobile library services in neighborhoods with limited transportation options.

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Inclusion

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Open Invitation”
  • “Welcoming Atmosphere”
  • “Making Room for Everyone”

Library Context:

• Creating programming caters to various interests, abilities, ages, and cultural backgrounds.
• Ensuring programming times accommodate working adults, caregivers, or students.

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Intersectionality

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Multi-Faceted Perspectives”
  • “Complex Identities”
  • “Overlapping Needs”

Library Context:

• Recognizing a single patron may need resources in various languages and mobility challenges.
• Understanding how someone’s age, race, economic status, or disability can affect their library experience.

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Microaggressions

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Subtle Offenses”
  • “Everyday Slights”
  • “Implicit Hurts”

Library Context:

• Training staff to avoid assumptions about a patron’s reading level or language ability.
• Fostering respectful communication in staff meetings and public interactions.

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Power Dynamics

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Influence Structures”
  • “Organizational Hierarchies”
  • “Decision-Making Patterns”

Library Context:

• Remember how senior staff or administrators might inadvertently overshadow new ideas from junior staff or interns.
• Inviting input from front-line librarians in strategic planning to balance decision-making.

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Privilege

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Uneven Advantages”
  • “Inherent Benefits”
  • “Additional Societal Supports”

Library Context:

• Understanding why patrons more easily participate in library programs (e.g., flexible work schedules, reliable internet access).
• Recognizing one’s professional background or network might ease access to grants or collaborations.

---

Representation

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Reflecting the Wider Community”
  • “Inclusive Visibility”
  • “Broad Spectrum of Identities”

Library Context:

• Displaying artwork or featured authors that speak to the community’s multiple cultural traditions.
• Hiring staff from different backgrounds to reflect a diverse patron base.

---

Safe Space / Brave Space

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Supportive Environment”
  • “Respectful Discussion Area”
  • “Welcoming Zone”

Library Context:

• Setting aside spaces for quiet study or sensitive group discussions (e.g., mental health support sessions).
• Establishing guidelines that encourage civil discourse at library events.

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Tokenism

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Surface-Level Inclusion”
  • “Symbolic Representation”
  • “Check-the-Box Efforts”

Library Context:

• We want to avoid a situation in which one staff member from an underrepresented group is always portrayed as “the face” of diverse programming.
• Ensuring library initiatives have meaningful involvement and shared decision-making rather than mere optics.

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Underrepresented Groups

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Communities with Limited Resources”
  • “Patrons Less Reached by Services”
  • “Populations Requiring Additional Outreach”

Library Context:

• Offering bookmobile stops in rural or transportation-poor areas.
• Providing specialized outreach or materials for incarcerated individuals, refugees, or older adults in retirement communities.

---

Universal Design

• Neutral or Subtle Alternatives:
  • “Inclusive Facility Planning”
  • “Design for Everyone”
  • “All-User Access Strategies”

Library Context:

• Ensuring all signage uses clear icons and high-contrast text.
• Installing adjustable computer desks and well-lit reading stations.

---

Using This Resource in a Library Setting

1. Policy and Planning: Substitute potentially sensitive DEIA terminology with neutral or context-specific language (e.g., “balanced opportunities” instead of “equity”) in strategic plans or public-facing documents if direct DEIA references are discouraged.

2. Staff Training: Encourage staff to learn the underlying principles behind these terms (e.g., fair access, multi-faceted patron needs) and apply them in daily interactions without necessarily using charged vocabulary.

3. Programming & Collections: When developing programs, displays, or events, reference these concepts in your planning notes to ensure broad representation, user-friendly design, and a welcoming atmosphere for all patrons.

4. Community Engagement: Use approachable language (“Open Invitation,” “Supportive Environment”) to communicate inclusion in flyers, social media, or newsletters, helping patrons feel comfortable and valued.

By adopting these library-oriented alternatives, you can uphold the spirit and principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility—while remaining sensitive to the specific constraints or challenges your library may face in using explicit DEIA language.

Web Archiving Guide for Librarians & Patrons | How to Preserve Websites & Data

 

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Guide to Web Archiving for Librarians and Patrons

1. Introduction

What is Web Archiving?
Web archiving collects, preserves, and manages web-based information to remain accessible to future researchers, historians, journalists, and citizens. It ensures that websites, online documents, data, and other content are not lost when a site is removed, altered, or taken offline.

Why Web Archiving Matters

• Preserving Public Records: Government agencies and other organizations publish essential data online. Without web archiving, historical records disappear if those agencies remove or change pages.
• Accountability & Transparency: Journalists, researchers, and the public can track changes over time, ensuring that data is not quietly rewritten or purged.
• Historical Research: Future scholars rely on these archives to understand past events, policies, and social conditions.
• Public Access: Web archives allow anyone to view old versions of websites without special permissions or proprietary software.

---

2. Why It Is Important to Archive Websites

1. Government Data & Public Policy

   • Federal websites (e.g., https://www.census.gov/ for Census data) can change or remove information without notice. Archiving helps preserve everything from demographic data to environmental statistics.

2. Local Government & Community Information

   • County or city portals often host meeting minutes, budget documents, and other records. However, these can disappear if a site is redesigned or if new administrators decide to remove them.

3. Research & Academic Integrity

   • Universities and research labs frequently post datasets and study results. If grants change or departments merge, these pages can vanish. An archive keeps these resources alive for long-term study.

4. Journalistic & Investigative Purposes

   • Investigative reporters use historical snapshots of web pages to compare past statements or track the history of government agencies, corporations, or organizations.

5. Cultural & Social Heritage

   • The internet captures our modern culture—memes, social movements, and community-driven projects. However, if these records are preserved, future generations can learn from them.

---

3. How You Can Participate in Web Archiving

1. Submit URLs to the Internet Archive

   • Most people can help by saving pages on the Wayback Machine. Section 4.1 below provides more details.

2. Identify Vulnerable Content

   • Look for data sets or web pages that might be at risk (e.g., government sites and project pages from local or smaller agencies that lack robust preservation plans).

3. Join Data Rescue Efforts

   • Data Liberation Project: Follow announcements and sign up to help identify and archive threatened data.
   • Data Rescue Project: Look for local “Data Rescue” events or join the broader online community to help find, download, and store critical information.

4. File FOIA Requests

   • If you suspect data has already been removed, you can use MuckRock to file Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.

5. Volunteer Technical Skills

   • You might help with specialized web crawling or bulk data downloads if you have programming or data management skills. Objects like Big Local News and the End-of-Termhive often welcome coders, data analysts, and other volunteers.

6. Spread the Word

   • Encourage your community to save pages of interest. The more people who know how to archive, the less likely vital data will vanish.

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4. Key Tools & Platforms

4.1 Internet Archive’s Wayback Machine

• URL: https://archive.org/web
• Purpose: Captures website snapshots (“crawls”) for long-term preservation and public access.
• How to Save a Webpage:
  1. Go to https://archive.org/web.
  2. In the “Save Page Now” box, paste the URL of the page you want to archive.
  3. Click SAVE PAGE.
  4. Wait for the snapshot to process; the Wayback Machine will give you a permanent archived link.
• Submitting Lists in Bulk
  • Use the Wayback Machine’s Google Sheets submission tool for large batches of URLs. Create a spreadsheet of URLs, then submit them all at once.

4.2 End of Term (EOT) Archive

• URL: http://eotarchive.org
• Purpose: Specifically focuses on capturing snapshots of U.S. Government websites during administrative transitions (end of a presidential term).
• How to Contribute:
  • Nominate at-risk federal URLs on their site or through partner projects.
  • The full-text index (in progress) for the 2024/2025 EOT Archive Collective can be viewed here: https://web.archive.org/collection-search/EndOfTerm2024PreElectionCrawls.

4.3 Big Local News

• URL: https://biglocalnews.org
• Purpose: Helps local newsrooms collect and analyze public data.
• Participation:
  • Contact Big Local News if you have local datasets or want to volunteer data analysis skills.

4.4 Data Liberation Project & MuckRock

• Data Liberation Project

  • Overview: Works to identify important datasets at risk of being taken offline.
  • Slack & Newsletter: To join Slack or sign up for the newsletter, check the project’s announcements at https://dataliberationproject.org or https://www.muckrock.com.

• MuckRock

  • URL: https://www.muckrock.com
  • Overview: Non-profit collaborative news site that facilitates FOIA requests and hosts a massive repository of government documents.
  • DocumentCloud: (Included under the MuckRock Foundation umbrella) used by thousands of newsrooms to organize, annotate, and publish primary source documents.
  • How to Participate:
    • Suggest FOIA requests for missing or altered data sets.
    • Check out MuckRock’s training on transparency and investigative journalism.

4.5 Library Innovation Lab

• URL: https://lil.law.harvard.edu/
• Overview: A software and design lab at the Harvard Law School Library dedicated to building open knowledge projects.
• Director: Jack Cushman.

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5. Step-by-Step: Teaching Patrons How to Archive a Website

1. Identify the Website

   • Encourage patrons to choose a page containing potentially at-risk info—e.g., local government meeting minutes, federal datasets, or specialized research.

2. Use the Wayback Machine

   • Visit https://archive.org/web.
   • Paste the URL into the “Save Page Now” field.
   • Click SAVE PAGE to capture a snapshot.

3. Verify the Snapshot

   • Once archived, verify the page’s text, images, and download links (if any) are captured. Some dynamic content might not be fully captured; advanced tools can help.

4. Document the Archive

   • Store the archived URL in a shared spreadsheet or library resource guide. Record the date, the original URL, and the archived link.

5. Contribute to Collaborative EffortsIf: If relevant, share the archived URL with the End-of-Termhive or the Data Rescue Project (or a similar initiative). The content is part of a more extensive database and coordinates with projects like Big Local News.

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6. Tips for Going Beyond Basic Archiving

• Bulk Archiving: Use Wayback Machine’s Google Sheets tool or specialized crawlers like Webrecorder (for interactive pages).
• Local Data Preservation: Encourage patrons to check local municipality or county sites. Sometimes, local data is even more vulnerable to loss than federal data.
• Collaborate With Other Institutions: Universities, public libraries, and historical societies often have digital preservation or IT departments that can help manage large-scale archiving.
• Digital Tools & Scripting: Patrons with coding skills may explore Python-based tools like ArchiveBot or Heritrix.
• Advocacy & Policy: Teach patrons that archiving is also about awareness—encourage them to support policies that require better government transparency and data retention.

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7. Recommended Links and Resources

Below are the direct links (all publicly available) from presenters and attendees mentioned in your notes:

• MuckRock: https://www.muckrock.com
• DocumentCloud (MuckRock Foundation tool): https://www.documentcloud.org
• Data Liberation Project: https://dataliberationproject.org
• Data Rescue Project: https://datarefuge.org (some initiatives also reference https://datacapture.archivesunleashed.org/ for tracking)
• End of Term Archive (EOT): http://eotarchive.org
  • Full-text index: https://web.archive.org/collection-search/EndOfTerm2024PreElectionCrawls
• Wayback Machine (Internet Archive): https://archive.org/web
  • Bulk submission tool: https://archive.org/services/wayback-gsheets/
• Library Innovation Lab (Harvard Law School): https://lil.law.harvard.edu/
• Big Local News: https://biglocalnews.org
• Safeguarding Research (Discourse forum): https://safeguarding-research.discourse.group/
• Documenters.org (local meeting coverage): https://documenters.org

Subscription/Contact Links:

• Sign up for MuckRock’s newsletter: https://www.muckrock.com/newsletter/
• Data Liberation Project Slack: Find details at https://dataliberationproject.org/ or reach out via their contact page.
• Internet Archive on GitHub: https://github.com/internetarchive
• Bluesky: Follow individuals or organizations if they share a handle (e.g., look for “Internet Archive” or “MuckRock” on Bluesky).

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8. Key People & Their Roles

• Mark Graham

  • Role: Director of the Wayback Machine at the Internet Archive
  • Focus: Archiving the web daily, ensuring it’s publicly accessible.
  • URL: https://archive.org/web

• Sarah Cohen

  • Role: Works with Big Local News, trains local journalists
  • Focus: Data analysis for investigative stories
  • URL: https://biglocalnews.org

• Jack Cushman

  • Role: Director, Library Innovation Lab at Harvard Law School
  • Focus: Merging library principles with software, design, and legal innovation
  • URL: https://lil.law.harvard.edu/

• Lynda Kellam, PhD

  • Role: Secretary of IASSIST, longtime academic data librarian
  • Focus: Data management, government information, and stewardship
  • Related Projects: https://iassistdata.org/

• Michael Morisy

  • Role: Chief Executive Officer at MuckRock
  • Focus: FOIA requests, transparency, investigative journalism training
  • URL: https://www.muckrock.com

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9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can non-US patrons or institutions help?

   • Submit URLs to https://archive.org/web, share local or international data sets, and mirror archives if you have the server capacity.

2. What if the page has interactive elements like maps or tools?

   • The basic Wayback Machine capture might not include dynamic content. Consider using tools like Webrecorder to capture interactive sessions.

3. How can I find which datasets need archiving the most?

   • Check: You can check the Data Rescue Tracker (or partner sites), which often lists priority datasets. You can also ask in the Data Liberation Project Slack or MuckRock communities.

4. Is it legal to archive any webpage?

   • Generally, capturing publicly available web pages for preservation is considered fair use or library/archive practice in many jurisdictions. If you’re unsure, consult your library’s legal guidelines or resources.

5. Is there a single, comprehensive list of everything being archived?

   • No single list exists because many groups run parallel efforts. However, the Internet Archive is the largest aggregator. The End of Term Archive focuses on federal government websites.

6. How can we preserve large datasets like Census data?

   • Coordinate with projects like the Data Rescue Project or Big Local News twithsystems for downloading and storing large files.

7. What if I have hard drive space to donate?

   • You can contact the Data Rescue Project or the Internet Archive to see if they accept mirrored data. Some projects prefer distributed backups.

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10. Workshop/Session Notes

• Keep It Interactive: Encourage patrons to try saving a webpage themselves during your session.
• Highlight Collaboration: Show them how to share archived URLs with others or how to add them to a public spreadsheet.
• Questions & Answer Time: Collect questions in a shared document (e.g., Google Doc), similar to the approach used in the event notes you provided, so everyone can benefit from the discussion.
• Follow-Up: After the session, provide a read-only version of your collaborative document with all resources, archived links, and Q&A for future reference.

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Conclusion

Web archiving is a powerful way to protect our collective digital heritage. By learning to capture at-risk websites and data, librarians and patrons can ensure vital information remains accessible to researchers, journalists, and the public for decades. Remember:

Every URL you save helps preserve the historical record.

100 Best Medical Search Engines & Databases for Research & Healthcare Professionals

 

Library DEIA Assessment Guide 2025

Revised Library DEIA Assessment Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Why DEIA Assessment Matters
2. Key Definitions and Concepts
3. Establishing an Assessment Plan
4. Internal vs. External Assessment
5. Methods and Tools for DEIA Assessment
6. Inclusive Approaches & Multiple Perspectives
7. Addressing Challenges & Managing Change
8. Applying Findings: Closing the Loop
9. Case Examples & Success Highlights
10. Action Steps & Recommendations
11. Additional Resources

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1. Introduction: Why DEIA Assessment Matters

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) remain critical for community and junior college libraries, which often serve highly diverse populations. Systematic DEIA assessments help libraries:

• Identify and address gaps in collections, services, policies, and staffing.
• Foster student success and retention by creating welcoming, inclusive environments.
• Promote equity in resource access and representation.
• Demonstrate accountability to college administrators, accreditors, and community stakeholders.

Example: A community college library with a predominantly first-generation student population can use DEIA assessment to discover whether library signage, programming, and collections adequately reflect these learners’ cultures and experiences, thus enhancing their sense of belonging.

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2. Key Definitions and Concepts

• Diversity: Representation of various backgrounds (race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, ability, age, religion, socioeconomic status, etc.).
• Equity: Fair treatment and resource distribution to ensure everyone has the support they need to succeed.
• Inclusion: Efforts that actively involve and empower individuals and groups so that all voices are genuinely heard and can influence decisions.
• Accessibility: Ensuring services, spaces, and digital tools are designed for full participation by individuals of all abilities.
• Belonging: The feeling of comfort, acceptance, and “fit” within a community or institution—often a key predictor of both retention and success.

Example: When updating a library building, ensuring ramps, braille signage, and text-to-speech tools (Accessibility) is just as important as inclusive social events, displays, or policies that welcome everyone (Inclusion), combined with a budgeting strategy that addresses historic inequalities (Equity).

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3. Establishing an Assessment Plan

3.1 Basic Steps

1. Determine Scope & Purpose
   Decide if you are primarily assessing collections, staff culture, programming, or overall climate.

   Example: You might focus on whether your workshop series equally engages ESL students, older adult learners, and students with disabilities.

2. Form a Core Team
   Include librarians, faculty, students, staff, and institutional researchers.

   Example: A DEIA Working Group with a cataloger, a reference librarian, a student representative, and your IR staff can provide balanced perspectives.

3. Create Definitions & Goals
   Develop local definitions for “diversity,” “equity,” “inclusion,” “accessibility,” and “belonging.”

   Example: The library’s goal might be “to have the demographics of student workers in the library match campus demographics within two years.”

4. Decide on Data Collection Methods
   Surveys, focus groups, interviews, observation, analysis of institutional records, or mixed methods.

   Example: A combination of a library climate survey plus HR data on staff retention can yield rich insights.

5. Develop a Timeline and Budget
   Create a realistic schedule for data gathering, analysis, reflection, and action.

   Example: A Gantt chart showing data collection in Fall, analysis in Winter, and action planning in Spring.

6. Plan for IRB or Privacy Concerns
   If collecting sensitive data (e.g., demographics, personal info), consult your institution’s IRB or privacy office.

   Example: If you track attendance for specific demographic groups at library events, ensure data confidentiality.

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4. Internal vs. External Assessment

4.1 Internal

• Focus: Staff demographics, recruitment, retention, professional development, internal policies.
• Why: A supportive internal culture yields improved external services.

Practical Example: Interview staff who left within two years; if they cite feeling “isolated” or “unsupported,” implement mentorship or cluster-hiring strategies to improve retention.

4.2 External

• Focus: Student demographics, community needs, usage data, programming attendance, perceived inclusivity.
• Why: The library’s relevance depends on how well it meets the community’s and students’ actual needs.

Practical Example: Survey students about how well library resources reflect their identities. If you discover low representation, adjust collection development and event planning accordingly.

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5. Methods and Tools for DEIA Assessment

5.1 Surveys

• CCSSE (Community College Survey of Student Engagement) or similar.
• HERI Diverse Learning Environments Survey for campus climate insights.
• In-House Surveys tailored to your local context.

Example Question:
“Which of the following best describes how you feel in our library? (Select all that apply):
- My culture is reflected in signage/collections.
- Library staff treat me with respect.
- I find resources in my primary/preferred language.
- I feel safe asking for help with my unique needs.”

5.2 Focus Groups & Interviews

• Gather qualitative insights to explore why certain gaps exist.
• Train facilitators in cultural competence.

Example Protocol:
Opening: “Describe a recent positive experience you had in the library.”
Probing: “What specific changes could make you feel even more included here?”

5.3 Observation & Environmental Scans

• Walk through library spaces and check for visual representation, signage clarity, ADA compliance, assistive technologies.

Example: Use a simple checklist for braille signage, height-adjustable desks, or gender-neutral restrooms.

5.4 Catalog Diversity Audits

• Purpose: Determine whose voices are being amplified in the collection.
• Process: Develop relevant categories (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender, disability) and systematically review acquisitions.

Student-Involved Example: Hire student interns to examine a subset of the catalog for author demographics—similar to Elizabeth Godwin’s project. Use these findings to align future acquisitions with campus diversity.

5.5 Institutional Data Analysis

• Disaggregate usage stats and success rates by demographic group when possible.
• Combine library usage data with broader campus metrics for deeper insights.

Example: Compare how many first-gen students check out materials vs. their overall proportion on campus. If they are underrepresented among library users, investigate possible barriers.

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6. Inclusive Approaches & Multiple Perspectives

1. Engage Stakeholders Early
   Include staff, faculty, and students to shape your assessment plan.

   Example: Form a DEIA Advisory Council meeting quarterly.

2. Offer Multiple Ways to Contribute
   Combine surveys, open forums, suggestion boxes, and interviews.

   Example: Provide Zoom or phone interviews for distance learners with scheduling constraints.

3. Recognize Intersectionality
   One identity category does not capture all nuances.

   Example: Pair surveys with one-on-one interviews to learn how being an older-adult ESL speaker shapes library engagement.

4. Transparency & Context
   Explain how demographic info will be used, highlight privacy measures, and show how it drives improvement.

   Example: Before distributing a library climate survey, share a “FAQ” about why each question matters.

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7. Addressing Challenges & Managing Change

7.1 Resistance to Change

• Identify potential pushback (e.g., overburdened staff, tight budgets, or misunderstanding).
• Strategies: Provide information sessions, staff development in implicit bias and inclusive service.

Example: A short “Implicit Bias in Collection Development” workshop can help staff see the benefit of more inclusive acquisition processes.

7.2 Budget and Resource Constraints

• Pilot and Phase: Start small if resources are tight.
• Collaborate: Seek grants, partner with other departments, or integrate projects into coursework.

Example: If a full catalog reclassification is impossible, do a partial audit for social sciences materials and expand over time.

7.3 Privacy/IRB Considerations

• Consult IRB or ethics boards if data will be published or widely shared.

Example: For a student-driven diversity audit, ensure permission to analyze usage data or track demographics has been granted.

7.4 Staff Turnover & Training

• Maintain institutional knowledge with clear documentation of processes.

Example: Create a “DEIA Assessment Handbook” on your intranet so new hires can quickly learn established practices.

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8. Applying Findings: Closing the Loop

8.1 Analyze Thoroughly

• Look for patterns in disaggregated data.
• Compare results year-over-year or with external benchmarks.

8.2 Communicate Results

• Share in accessible formats: concise reports, infographics, or presentations.

Example: A 1-page “DEIA Highlights & Next Steps” summary can be shared in staff meetings or faculty senate gatherings.

8.3 Implement Changes & Document

• Align action items with data findings.

Example: If older adult students struggle with library technology, create a dedicated tutorial or embed tech support in library orientation.

8.4 Reassess

• Schedule re-evaluation every 6–12 months.

Example: After launching an “Inclusive Book Club,” measure attendance and belonging each session, then revisit data at semester’s end.

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9. Case Examples & Success Highlights

1. Cluster Hiring for Retention
   Challenge: Repeated turnover among librarians from minoritized groups.
   Assessment Action: Data showed feelings of isolation; admin approved multi-person hiring.
   Outcome: New librarians formed a supportive cohort, improving retention.
2. Student-Driven Diversity Audit
   Challenge: Limited staff capacity for catalog reviews.
   Assessment Action: Two student interns examined ~1,300 titles for ~12 minutes each.
   Outcome: Findings exposed collection gaps and informed better acquisition strategies.
3. Library Workshops & Sense of Belonging
   Challenge: Low attendance among older adult learners at evening workshops.
   Assessment Action: Surveys revealed childcare and travel constraints.
   Outcome: Offering online synchronous options and childcare stipends tripled workshop attendance.

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10. Action Steps & Recommendations

1. Start Small: Begin with a pilot project (e.g., event feedback forms) to build momentum.
2. Gather Broad Input: Involve staff, students, and faculty from multiple backgrounds and roles.
3. Use Mixed Methods: Combine quantitative and qualitative data for a fuller understanding.
4. Be Transparent About Privacy: Explain why demographic info is collected, how it will be used, and how confidentiality is protected.
5. Publicly Address Results: Communicate findings, highlight successes, and discuss next steps openly.
6. Maintain Ongoing Improvement: Plan a cycle of re-assessment—DEIA is not “one and done.”

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11. Additional Resources

• ACRL Diversity Standards: Guidelines for cultural competency in academic libraries.
• Project READY: Free professional development materials focusing on racial equity (adaptable for various library contexts).
• Library Assessment Conference Proceedings: Contains case studies and proven methods for library-based DEIA assessments.
• In the Library with the Lead Pipe: Open-access journal featuring critical discussions on equity in LIS.
• Urban Libraries Council’s Equity Toolkit: Offers frameworks adaptable for academic and community college libraries.

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Closing Thoughts

DEIA assessments guide libraries to be more equitable and welcoming, ultimately boosting student success and staff satisfaction. By systematically collecting, analyzing, and acting on data, libraries can refine policies, enrich collections, and create environments where everyone feels they belong.

Practical Next Steps:
1. Identify one pilot (e.g., a diversity audit of your top 100 circulating titles) to gain momentum.
2. Document your assessment process and store it in a shared space for staff reference.
3. Schedule a follow-up within 6–12 months to reassess, adjust, and continue improving.

Use the examples in this guide to customize your approach according to your library’s goals, resources, and context. By keeping these guiding principles in mind, libraries can move beyond checklists and truly embed DEIA in daily practice.