Inclusive Reference

As librarians, we deem it extremely important, vital even, to create spaces in which all are welcome and feel comfortable engaging with us towards a shared research goal. For us, this means practicing what we call "inclusive reference," which is grounded in inclusive pedagogy with emphasis on serving the research needs of those who enter our spaces, regardless of background or identity, and is meant to inform and shape our reference interactions with a mindfulness that makes room and sets the norm for inclusiveness in impactful ways. This intentionality has led us to the thoughtful creation of guiding principles and best practices for inclusive reference so that we might engender more meaningful interactions with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and any who seek research help.

AUTHORS
Gutman Library Research Services Team: Quetzalli Barrientos, Dianne N. Brown, Jamillah R. Gabriel (project lead), Carla Lillvik, Ning Zou