Library Collection Diversity Audit

In spring 2022, we conducted our first full diversity audit of our printed books for all ages using the Ingram iCurate services. We budgeted specific funds to fill identified gaps in our collection and added 300 new titles to the collection. We continued to use the reports to fill gaps in the 2022-2023 fiscal year and continue to purchase fresh and inclusive titles annually.

The audit identified eleven categories that appeal to diverse audiences and represent diverse authors and topics. Those categories were: Asian interest, Black interest, Indigenous interest, Jewish interest, Latinx interest, LGBTQIA interest, mental health, Middle Eastern interest, multicultural, Muslim interest, and neuro and physical diversity.

Sherwood Public Library logo with trees, mountains, a flying bird, and a sun over a lake.

This work stems from goals in our strategic planning, collection development policy and practices, and from best practices of the profession, including the Oregon Library Association’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism Toolkit.