(via the Association of College and Research Libraries)
The Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) is pleased to announce the launch of the ACRL Diversity Alliance. Approved by the ACRL Board of Directors at the 2016 ALA Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, the ACRL Diversity Alliance program unites academic libraries who share a commitment to increase the hiring pipeline of qualified, talented individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.
By thinking bigger and broader, across all academic libraries, the alliance will introduce and welcome to the job market underrepresented racial and ethnic groups with work experiences that advance academic and research libraries. The commitment of each library leader to create one or more resident positions will increase the numbers of opportunities for professionally underrepresented racial and ethnic groups to gain the knowledge, skills and competencies to thrive in an academic context.
Participation in the ACRL Diversity Alliance requires a deep commitment on the part of library leaders to open doors, share their networks and connect people at conferences, to facilitate deeper understanding of the profession and prepare them for participating in wider higher education community and for success in scholarship and professional service and leadership. In addition to the network of library leaders, residents will have access to a cohort and network that allows for sharing of ideas, resources and best practices. The ACRL Diversity Alliance grew out of an initiative led by founding members American University, the University of Iowa, Virginia Tech University, and West Virginia University.
Complete details on the ACRL Diversity Alliance, including information on how libraries may join the alliance, are available on the ACRL website.