The goals were to uncover topics for publication and to open a dialogue between ALA Editions' editors and leaders concerned with addressing real diversity issues. From remarks on a range of topics, it became quite clear that diversity touches many aspects of the profession and therefore has a place in all publications. As one participant put it, diversity is a majority, not a minority, issue. Immigration as an issue calls for redefinition of library services and the practice of librarianship. It is librarians' personal responsibility to rethink service models and strive for a new level of professionalism.
Collections reflect the selectors' world view and attitudes.
People of color uniquely connect to the community and bring that uniqueness to all aspects of their jobs. Library literature is short on the public library perspective, where authors lack the institutional support and tenure motivations of the academic setting. An emerging force of writers or color wish to address a variety of issues, such as technology, young adult services, organizational change, or fundraising, and not just diversity. If you have questions about the focus group or are looking for ideas from the discussion that might affect your project, contact an ALA Editions editor. Upon request from authors with a work in progress, editors can arrange for a reader to evaluate your manuscript on diversity issues.