List of U.S. State Library Associations

Here's a table of U.S. State Library Associations along with their website URLs. 

State	Association Name	Website URL
Alabama	Alabama Library Association (ALLA)	https://www.allanet.org
Alaska	Alaska Library Association (AkLA)	https://akla.org
Arizona	Arizona Library Association (AzLA)	https://www.azla.org
Arkansas	Arkansas Library Association (ArLA)	https://arlib.org
California	California Library Association (CLA)	https://www.cla-net.org
Colorado	Colorado Association of Libraries (CAL)	https://cal-webs.org
Connecticut	Connecticut Library Association (CLA)	https://ctlibraryassociation.org
Delaware	Delaware Library Association (DLA)	https://dla.lib.de.us
Florida	Florida Library Association (FLA)	https://www.flalib.org
Georgia	Georgia Library Association (GLA)	https://gla.georgialibraries.org
Hawaii	Hawaii Library Association (HLA)	https://hawaiilibraryassociation.org
Idaho	Idaho Library Association (ILA)	https://idaholibraries.org
Illinois	Illinois Library Association (ILA)	https://www.ila.org
Indiana	Indiana Library Federation (ILF)	https://www.ilfonline.org
Iowa	Iowa Library Association (ILA)	https://www.iowalibraryassociation.org
Kansas	Kansas Library Association (KLA)	https://kslibassoc.org
Kentucky	Kentucky Library Association (KLA)	https://www.klaonline.org
Louisiana	Louisiana Library Association (LLA)	https://llaonline.org
Maine	Maine Library Association (MLA)	https://mainelibraries.org
Maryland	Maryland Library Association (MLA)	https://www.mdlib.org
Massachusetts	Massachusetts Library Association (MLA)	https://www.masslib.org
Michigan	Michigan Library Association (MLA)	https://www.milibraries.org
Minnesota	Minnesota Library Association (MLA)	https://www.mnlibraryassociation.org
Mississippi	Mississippi Library Association (MLA)	https://misslib.org
Missouri	Missouri Library Association (MLA)	https://molib.org
Montana	Montana Library Association (MLA)	https://www.mtlib.org
Nebraska	Nebraska Library Association (NLA)	https://nebraskalibraries.org
Nevada	Nevada Library Association (NLA)	https://nvlibraryassociation.org
New Hampshire	New Hampshire Library Association (NHLA)	https://nhlibrarians.org
New Jersey	New Jersey Library Association (NJLA)	https://njla.org
New Mexico	New Mexico Library Association (NMLA)	https://nmla.wildapricot.org
New York	New York Library Association (NYLA)	https://www.nyla.org
North Carolina	North Carolina Library Association (NCLA)	https://nclaonline.org
North Dakota	North Dakota Library Association (NDLA)	https://ndla.info
Ohio	Ohio Library Council (OLC)	https://olc.org
Oklahoma	Oklahoma Library Association (OLA)	https://oklibs.org
Oregon	Oregon Library Association (OLA)	https://www.olaweb.org
Pennsylvania	Pennsylvania Library Association (PaLA)	https://www.palibraries.org
Rhode Island	Rhode Island Library Association (RILA)	https://rilibraries.org
South Carolina	South Carolina Library Association (SCLA)	https://www.scla.org
South Dakota	South Dakota Library Association (SDLA)	https://www.sdla.org
Tennessee	Tennessee Library Association (TLA)	https://www.tnla.org
Texas	Texas Library Association (TLA)	https://txla.org
Utah	Utah Library Association (ULA)	https://ula.org
Vermont	Vermont Library Association (VLA)	https://www.vermontlibraries.org
Virginia	Virginia Library Association (VLA)	https://www.vla.org
Washington	Washington Library Association (WLA)	https://www.wla.org
West Virginia	West Virginia Library Association (WVLA)	https://www.wvla.org
Wisconsin	Wisconsin Library Association (WLA)	https://www.wisconsinlibraries.org
Wyoming	Wyoming Library Association (WYLA)	https://wyla.org

Please note that while these URLs are active as of

A Lean Library: Engaging and Empowering Every Stakeholder

A lean library thrives on the principle that every individual—staff member or patron—plays an essential role in shaping services, programs, and policies. Far from a static institution, a lean library is dynamic and participatory, nurturing a culture where all perspectives contribute to continual improvement. By empowering workers at every level and inviting patrons to be active collaborators rather than passive recipients, libraries unlock fresh solutions and resources that better align with real user needs.

Central to this philosophy is the idea of flattening hierarchies. Traditional library structures often feature a chain of command that assigns decision-making power to an exclusive group of managers or directors. In a lean context, expertise is recognized in frontline employees, reference staff, student workers, and even volunteers. Such individuals interact directly with patrons, intimately understanding daily challenges and opportunities. Empowering them to propose system changes, suggest new programs, or reconfigure work processes affirms that their insights can dramatically improve library effectiveness. The result is an environment where decisions are made swiftly, grounded in day-to-day observations rather than administrative guesswork.

Notably, a lean library transcends these internal boundaries by involving its broader community. In many cases, patrons are the best judges of which resources are most pertinent, which hours are most crucial, and which events or services would benefit most. By incorporating channels for user feedback—regular surveys, usability tests, public forums, or advisory committees—libraries amplify voices that historically remained unheard. This sense of collective ownership reinforces patron loyalty and fosters a shared mission: ensuring the library remains a relevant space for research, social engagement, and learning.

Equally vital is developing the proper support infrastructure. Individuals are less inclined to contribute if outdated systems, rigid policies, or insufficient training stifle their creative energies. In a lean library, professional development becomes an ongoing cycle, and training is not restricted to managers or “tech-savvy” staff; instead, it is offered to everyone, including part-time employees and volunteers. Likewise, investments in accessible technology—such as user-friendly catalog interfaces or mobile applications—allow patrons to more easily share ideas, annotate resources, and collaborate with librarians or fellow users. These supportive measures convey that every stakeholder’s voice is valued, eliminating barriers that might otherwise exclude people from the conversation.

Navigating Commercial Pressures: How Libraries Remain Unbiased in a Corporate World

Libraries, revered as protectors of intellectual freedom and providers of unbiased information for all, demonstrate remarkable resilience in the face of real-world constraints imposed by commercial partners, licensing agreements, and broader social power structures. This resilience is evident in their constant balancing act: preserving an ethical mission of open information access while functioning in a marketplace dominated by corporate publishers and technology vendors. citeturn1file5

A key challenge emerges from "vendor lock-in," whereby a library becomes dependent on a single vendor's proprietary products—such as integrated library systems or e-resource platforms. If this vendor holds a monopoly or near-monopoly position, costs can become prohibitively high, and the library's ability to customize services may diminish. For example, a public library might rely on a commercial e-book lending platform that limits the number of digital checkouts before requiring renewed licensing fees. Although these arrangements enable patrons to access popular materials, libraries must accept terms set by private entities. In doing so, they risk narrowing the scope of their collections or, in worst-case scenarios, straining already-limited budgets.

Another area where commercial interests exert profound influence is subscription publishing. Many scholarly journals, essential to academic and research libraries, sit behind paywalls managed by large corporations. Subscriptions can run into tens of thousands of dollars annually per journal package. To mitigate these high costs, libraries frequently form or join consortia—alliances of multiple libraries negotiating as one unit. By speaking collectively, libraries can sometimes push back against price hikes or secure more favorable licensing conditions. These consortia also facilitate the cooperative sharing of materials, expanding each library's collection well beyond its means.

Open Access (OA) initiatives, a beacon of hope in the face of commercial pressures, have risen in response to these challenges. In OA publishing, research outputs are made freely available without subscription fees. This model—often funded by university departments or granting agencies—protects readers from paywalls and helps libraries stay true to their mission of broad dissemination. While not entirely replacing subscription-based journals, OA programs offer a promising vision of how libraries can champion a more equitable information landscape.

Data privacy also represents a pivotal concern. Libraries collect user data—such as circulation records and digital resource downloads—to track service effectiveness. However, when commercial software handles these processes, patron data may be transferred to third-party servers. This raises questions about confidentiality, security, and whether external companies have the right to monetize or mine personal reading histories. In response, libraries often adopt clear privacy policies, turn off extraneous tracking features, and train staff to spot potential data breaches.

Far from capitulating to these commercial constraints, many libraries demonstrate their unwavering commitment to inclusivity through proactive measures. For instance, some create technology "sandboxes" for testing open-source tools, reducing dependence on proprietary products. Others negotiate for walk-in clauses that permit on-site database access to any community member, exemplifying the institution's commitment to inclusivity. These examples highlight how libraries can work in a commercial environment while upholding their fundamental ethos.

Ultimately, libraries cannot extricate themselves entirely from the commercial domain. However, they can mitigate power imbalances with sound negotiation strategies, consortial leverage, open-source experiments, and user-centered privacy protections. By doing so, they continue to serve as pillars of neutral, equitable access to knowledge in a world shaped by complex and often inequitable commercial forces. 

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.