Inclusive Reference

Assess reference and research interactions from two different perspectives: 1) the librarian’s account of what took place during the encounter; and 2) the library users' perception of how they felt during the encounter. 

Engage in trauma-informed reference practice by developing an understanding of trauma experiences of others and ourselves, and actively mitigating situations that may cause retraumatization. Library spaces and the systems and services within them can reproduce trauma: We commit to creating an environment of care and compassion while meeting our community’s information needs. 

Be open to other knowledges and cultural identities while actively embracing scholarship that privileges marginalized perspectives over status quo white male heteronormative scholarship.  

Engage with pedagogies and ideologies that aid in dismantling inequities including but not limited to inclusive pedagogy, cultural humility, culturally sustaining pedagogy, universal design in learning, trauma-informed pedagogy, etc. 

Create a welcoming environment for all users of our services by considering their needs for comfort, privacy, and respect. Develop a culture of learning for both learner and librarian where each is open to the knowledge of the other. 

Foster a mindset of continuous learning by seeking individual professional development opportunities, practicing self-reflection, and engaging in intentional conversation with colleagues. 

Approach reference interactions and the reference interview with cultural humility. With every reference question or reference interaction, it is important to evaluate the situation, promote critical thinking, and move beyond the bare minimum—cultural competency. We must keep in mind our abilities and accomplishments, and know our limitations.