RLUK ICIL | Making collections accessible and diverse
Channel: ResearchLibrariesUK
Date: 23/02/2024

Inclusive Collections, Inclusive Libraries is an RLUK programme of events that aims to foster conversation around decolonisation and inclusive practice in collecting, describing, presenting, and engaging with content in research library collections. It seeks to raise awareness about the opportunities and challenges of dealing with, contextualising, and engaging with offensive collections while also identifying and sharing examples of good practice.https://www.rluk.ac.uk/icil/

Making collections accessible and diverse: current approaches to audience engagement

Making collections more diverse, accessible, and inclusive is a priority for many collection-holding organisations, including research libraries and archives. Engaging with local and other communities and, especially, with underrepresented groups have become an integral part of current efforts to meet these goals.

This session showcases current approaches to engaging with different audience groups with the aim of making collections more accessible and diverse, but also for developing inclusive practices and increasing the reach of collections.

That’s Gay
Ross Wilkinson, Learning and Engagement Manager, Durham University
Ivy Hewett Graduate Intern for the Art Collection, Durham University

This case study explores how Durham University Library and Collections promote inclusivity through their learning and engagement programmes, academic teaching, and exhibitions. Ross Wilkinson, Learning and Engagement Manager takes us through how the team have developed inclusivity, diversity and inclusion particularly of faith and LGBTQ+ groups, in their formal and informal programming. New curator Ivy Hewett, graduate student of the modules ran by the Library and Collections and now Graduate Intern for the Art Collection, presents on how their academic studies have directly impacted on discussions of inclusivity in their own exhibition due for 2025 at the oriental Musuem, entitled ‘That’s Gay’.

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Open to all: the role of academic libraries in empowering inclusive learning
Sarah Todd, Library Inclusion Coordinator, University of Aberdeen

Discover how the University of Aberdeen fosters inclusive learning environments through accessible resources and services. This case study highlights the obstacles encountered by a student with a visual impairment, followed by a discussion on the library’s role in addressing these challenges. The presentation celebrates the library’s commitment to inclusivity and its impact on enhancing educational experiences for all.
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Heartstopper! Sustaining the Library-LGBTQ Love Affair
David Wright, Associate Library Director for User Experience, University of Southampton

The importance of libraries to the LGBTQ+ community has a long history and was beautifully illustrated in a scene from the recent Channel 4 series Heartstopper. This presentation considers why libraries continue to matter to queer people and shares some ideas on how we can continue to diversify our collections and ensure positive engagement with our LGBTQ+ customers.