Fostering a Welcoming and Inclusive Environment in the Workplace and Library

Previous Experience

1. Inclusive Programming
   • Organized cultural events and programs celebrating various cultures and identities.
   • Partnered with community organizations to host events that promote inclusivity.
2. Staff Training and Development
   • Developed and conducted training sessions on diversity, equity, and inclusion for all staff.
   • Created an ongoing professional development program focusing on inclusive practices.
3. User-Centered Services
   • Introduced user feedback mechanisms to continuously improve library services based on diverse user needs.
   • Adapted library services to be more accessible to individuals with disabilities and other specific needs.
4. Inclusive Language and Signage
   • Reviewed and updated all library signage and communication materials to use inclusive and gender-neutral language.
   • Provided multilingual resources and signage to cater to non-English speaking patrons.
5. Community Engagement
   • Established relationships with local community groups to better understand and serve their needs.
   • Hosted community forums to gather input and feedback on library services and programs.
6. Physical and Digital Accessibility
   • Conducted accessibility audits of physical and digital spaces to identify and address barriers.
   • Implemented changes to improve accessibility, such as installing ramps, creating accessible workstations, and ensuring website compatibility with screen readers.
7. Fostering an Inclusive Culture
   • Promoted a culture of respect and inclusivity through various initiatives, such as diversity committees and regular DEI discussions.
   • Celebrated diverse cultures and perspectives within the library through displays, events, and recognition programs.
8. Inclusive Collections Development
   • Regularly updated collection development policies to include materials from diverse authors and perspectives.
   • Engaged with faculty and students to recommend additions to the collection that reflect the diversity of the community.
9. Feedback and Continuous Improvement
   • Established regular feedback mechanisms to gather input from staff and patrons on inclusivity efforts.
   • Used feedback to make continuous improvements and adapt strategies to better meet the needs of the community.

Approach at Pratt Institute Libraries

1. Develop and Implement Inclusive Policies
   • Create policies that prioritize inclusivity in all aspects of library operations, from hiring practices to collection development.
   • Ensure all staff are trained on these policies and understand their importance.
2. Enhance Collections to Reflect Diversity
   • Work with faculty and students to identify gaps in the collection and acquire materials that represent diverse voices and perspectives.
   • Promote new acquisitions through displays and events.
3. Organize Inclusive Programs and Events
   • Plan and host events that celebrate cultural diversity and promote inclusivity.
   • Partner with student organizations and community groups to ensure programs are relevant and engaging.
4. Foster an Inclusive Workplace Culture
   • Provide regular training and professional development on diversity, equity, and inclusion for all staff.
   • Create a supportive environment where all staff feel valued and heard.
5. Improve Physical and Digital Accessibility
   • Conduct audits to identify and address accessibility issues in physical and digital spaces.
   • Implement changes to ensure all spaces and services are accessible to everyone.
6. Engage with the Community
   • Build strong relationships with student groups, faculty, and local organizations to understand their needs and perspectives.
   • Use this information to inform library services and programs.
7. Implement Inclusive Language and Signage
   • Review and update all library signage and communication materials to ensure they are inclusive and accessible.
   • Provide resources and materials in multiple languages to cater to the diverse community.
8. Establish Regular Feedback Mechanisms
   • Create channels for regular feedback from patrons and staff on inclusivity efforts.
   • Use feedback to make continuous improvements and adapt strategies as needed.
9. Celebrate Diversity and Inclusivity
   • Regularly recognize and celebrate the diverse cultures and perspectives within the Pratt Institute community.
   • Use displays, events, and recognition programs to highlight the importance of inclusivity.

Strategies for Making the Library More Inclusive and Welcoming

Conduct a Diversity Audit

• Step 1: Form a diversity audit team comprising library staff, students, and community members.
• Step 2: Review current library collections, services, policies, and spaces to identify areas lacking in diversity.
• Step 3: Collect feedback through surveys and focus groups from diverse user groups.
• Step 4: Analyze data to pinpoint specific areas for improvement.
• Step 5: Develop a report with findings and actionable recommendations.

Enhance Collections to Reflect Diversity

• Step 1: Identify gaps in the current collection related to underrepresented groups and topics.
• Step 2: Collaborate with faculty and students to create a list of recommended additions.
• Step 3: Allocate budget specifically for acquiring diverse materials.
• Step 4: Purchase and promote new materials through displays, events, and social media.
• Step 5: Regularly review and update the collection to ensure ongoing relevance and inclusivity.

Create Inclusive Programs and Events

• Step 1: Form a programming committee with diverse representation.
• Step 2: Brainstorm program ideas that celebrate and educate about different cultures, identities, and perspectives.
• Step 3: Partner with cultural organizations, student groups, and community members to co-host events.
• Step 4: Promote events widely, ensuring accessibility through various formats (e.g., online, in-person, hybrid).
• Step 5: Gather feedback after events to assess impact and improve future programming.

Implement Inclusive Language and Signage

• Step 1: Review all library signage, forms, and communication materials for inclusive language.
• Step 2: Update materials to use gender-neutral language and culturally sensitive terminology.
• Step 3: Provide multilingual signs and resources, reflecting the languages spoken in the community.
• Step 4: Train staff on inclusive language practices and the importance of representation.
• Step 5: Regularly review and update materials to ensure continued inclusivity.

Ensure Physical and Digital Accessibility

• Step 1: Conduct an accessibility audit of the physical and digital library spaces.
• Step 2: Identify and prioritize areas needing improvements (e.g., ramps, wider aisles, accessible workstations).
• Step 3: Allocate budget and resources to make necessary adjustments.
• Step 4: Implement accessibility features on the library website and digital resources (e.g., screen reader compatibility, alt text for images).
• Step 5: Continuously monitor and update accessibility features based on user feedback and technological advancements.

Foster a Welcoming Environment through Staff Training

• Step 1: Develop a comprehensive training program on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for all library staff.
• Step 2: Partner with DEI experts and organizations to deliver the training.
• Step 3: Schedule regular training sessions and make DEI education an ongoing requirement.
• Step 4: Create a safe space for staff to discuss DEI topics, share experiences, and support each other.
• Step 5: Evaluate the impact of training through staff feedback and library climate surveys.

Create Inclusive Spaces

• Step 1: Evaluate current library spaces for inclusivity and comfort.
• Step 2: Designate areas for diverse activities, such as prayer rooms, gender-neutral restrooms, and multicultural displays.
• Step 3: Incorporate inclusive design elements, such as artwork and decor representing various cultures and identities.
• Step 4: Ensure seating and study areas accommodate different needs, including quiet zones and collaborative spaces.
• Step 5: Regularly seek user feedback to make continuous improvements.

Promote a Diverse Workforce

• Step 1: Review hiring practices to eliminate biases and encourage diversity.
• Step 2: Develop partnerships with diverse professional organizations and educational institutions to attract a broad range of candidates.
• Step 3: Implement mentorship and professional development programs to support underrepresented staff.
• Step 4: Foster an inclusive workplace culture through regular DEI discussions and initiatives.
• Step 5: Monitor and assess workforce diversity and inclusion efforts, making adjustments as needed.

Engage with the Community

• Step 1: Establish relationships with local community organizations representing diverse groups.
• Step 2: Create outreach programs to invite community members to use library resources and participate in events.
• Step 3: Host community forums and listening sessions to understand the needs and preferences of different groups.
• Step 4: Incorporate community feedback into library planning and decision-making.
• Step 5: Celebrate community partnerships and achievements through joint events and recognition programs.

Evaluate and Improve Continuously

• Step 1: Develop metrics and benchmarks to evaluate the inclusivity and welcoming nature of the library.
• Step 2: Conduct regular surveys and feedback sessions with users and staff.
• Step 3: Analyze data to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Step 4: Implement changes based on findings and monitor their impact.
• Step 5: Foster a culture of continuous improvement by regularly revisiting and updating DEI strategies.

Team Building Activities for Libraries

Library Scavenger Hunt

• Objective: Encourage team collaboration and familiarity with library resources.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Preparation: Create a list of items or clues related to various sections of the library.
2. Grouping: Divide staff into small teams.
3. Execution: Give each team the scavenger hunt list and a time limit to find all items.
4. Debrief: Gather teams to discuss their findings and experiences.

Book Club Discussion

• Objective: Foster team bonding through shared reading experiences.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Selection: Choose a book relevant to library work or team interests.
2. Reading: Allocate time for all team members to read the book.
3. Discussion: Schedule a meeting to discuss themes, insights, and personal reflections.
4. Follow-Up: Encourage ongoing conversations and suggest future book choices.

Library Trivia Quiz

• Objective: Promote teamwork and knowledge about library history and services.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Preparation: Compile trivia questions about the library, famous books, and general knowledge.
2. Grouping: Divide staff into teams.
3. Quiz Time: Host the trivia quiz, keeping track of scores.
4. Prizes: Award small prizes to the winning team.

Escape Room Challenge

• Objective: Enhance problem-solving and teamwork skills.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Setup: Create an escape room scenario using library resources and puzzles.
2. Grouping: Divide staff into small groups.
3. Challenge: Each group works to solve puzzles and escape the room within a set time.
4. Debrief: Discuss the experience and what each team learned about collaboration.

Creative Workshop Series

• Objective: Encourage creativity and team bonding through hands-on activities.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Topics: Choose workshop topics such as bookbinding, digital storytelling, or creative writing.
2. Schedule: Plan a series of workshops over several weeks.
3. Participation: Encourage all team members to participate and collaborate.
4. Showcase: Hold a showcase event to display the work created during the workshops.

Team Lunch and Learn

• Objective: Share knowledge and foster a sense of community over lunch.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Topics: Select topics related to library services, new technologies, or personal development.
2. Speakers: Invite guest speakers or have team members present.
3. Lunch: Provide lunch or organize a potluck.
4. Discussion: Facilitate a discussion session after the presentation.

Volunteer Together

• Objective: Build team spirit while giving back to the community.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Identify Opportunities: Find local volunteer opportunities such as reading programs or book drives.
2. Organize: Schedule a volunteer day for the team.
3. Participation: Encourage full team participation.
4. Reflection: Discuss the volunteer experience and its impact on the team.

Library Improvement Project

• Objective: Collaborate on a project to improve library services or spaces.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Brainstorm: Hold a brainstorming session to identify potential projects.
2. Select Project: Choose a project based on feasibility and team interest.
3. Planning: Develop a project plan with tasks and deadlines.
4. Execution: Work together to complete the project.
5. Celebration: Celebrate the project’s completion and its impact on the library.

Team-Building Retreat

• Objective: Strengthen team relationships through a day or weekend retreat.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Plan Activities: Include team-building exercises, workshops, and relaxation time.
2. Location: Choose a suitable location away from the library.
3. Participation: Ensure all team members are involved in planning and participating.
4. Reflection: Hold a debrief session to discuss what was learned and how to apply it at work.

Interdepartmental Collaboration Challenge

• Objective: Promote collaboration between different library departments.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Pair Departments: Pair staff from different departments to work together.
2. Challenge: Assign a task or project that requires collaboration (e.g., creating a new display or program).
3. Execution: Teams work together over a set period to complete the challenge.
4. Presentation: Have each team present their work to the rest of the library staff.
5. Feedback: Provide constructive feedback and discuss future collaboration opportunities.

Seasonal and Festive Activities

Autumn Trivia Sheets

• Objective: Engage staff with seasonal trivia and reward knowledge.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Create Sheets: Develop trivia sheets with autumn-themed questions.
2. Distribution: Distribute trivia sheets to staff.
3. Submission: Collect completed sheets.
4. Prizes: Award prizes to those with the most correct answers.

Candy Corn Jar Guess

• Objective: Add a fun guessing game to the workplace.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Fill a Jar: Fill a jar with candy corns.
2. Guessing: Have staff guess the number of candy corns in the jar.
3. Winner: The closest guess wins the jar of candy corns.

Costume Contest

• Objective: Celebrate creativity and fun with a costume contest.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Announce Contest: Inform staff about the costume contest.
2. Categories: Create fun categories like “most obscure costume” or “best use of pipe cleaners.”
3. Judging: Have a panel or the entire staff vote on the best costumes.
4. Certificates: Award certificates or small prizes for each category.

Cider Bar

• Objective: Provide a cozy and festive treat for staff.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Setup: Set up a cider bar with mugs, cinnamon sticks, citrus slices, and other garnishes.
2. Promotion: Inform staff about the cider bar.
3. Enjoy: Encourage staff to enjoy the cider bar during breaks.

Hidden Objects Game

• Objective: Add an element of fun by hiding objects around the workroom.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Hide Objects: Hide small themed objects (e.g., little ghosts) around the workroom.
2. Hunt: Staff search for the hidden objects.
3. Prizes: Award prizes to those who find the most objects.

Communal Jigsaw Puzzle

• Objective: Encourage casual team interaction with a communal puzzle.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Setup: Place a large jigsaw puzzle on a communal table.
2. Participation: Staff can work on the puzzle during breaks.
3. Completion: Celebrate when the puzzle is completed and start a new one.

Pumpkin Decorating Contest

• Objective: Foster creativity with a pumpkin decorating contest.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Announce Contest: Inform staff about the pumpkin decorating contest.
2. Decorating: Provide pumpkins and decorating supplies (no carving for safety).
3. Voting: Have patrons vote on their favorite pumpkins.
4. Prize: Award a trophy or prize to the winner.

Aromatherapy Bracelets and Crafts

• Objective: Encourage creativity and relaxation through crafting.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Materials: Provide materials for making aromatherapy bracelets, air plant terrariums, or other crafts.
2. Workshop: Organize a crafting workshop.
3. Create: Staff create their own items.
4. Showcase: Display the finished products in a communal area.

Surprise Treat Day

• Objective: Boost morale with unexpected treats.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Plan: Choose a day for the surprise treat.
2. Treats: Bring in mini bundt cakes, cookies, or other treats.
3. Enjoy: Distribute treats to staff and enjoy the surprise.

Fashion Challenges

• Objective: Add fun and variety with themed fashion days.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Plan Themes: Choose themes like goth, food-inspired, or character costumes.
2. Announce: Inform staff of the themes and schedule.
3. Participate: Encourage staff to dress according to the themes.
4. Photos: Take photos and share them in a newsletter or on a bulletin board.

Interactive and Social Activities

Staff Trivia Activity

• Objective: Foster camaraderie through trivia about staff members.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Create Questions

: Develop a list of trivia questions about staff (e.g., “Who has a pet bearded dragon?”).

2. Distribution: Distribute the trivia sheets to staff.
3. Submission: Collect completed sheets.
4. Prizes: Award small prizes to those with the most correct answers.

Betting Pools

• Objective: Engage staff in friendly competitions.
• Step-by-Step:

1. Choose Topics: Select topics for the betting pool (e.g., “How many DVDs will circulate this month?”).
2. Collect Bets: Have staff submit their guesses.
3. Track Results: Monitor the outcomes over the specified period.
4. Award Prizes: Give prizes to those with the closest guesses.