Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The ALA Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services supports library and information science workers in creating safe, responsible, and all-inclusive spaces that serve and represent the entire community. To accomplish this, we decenter power and privilege by facilitating conversations around access and identity as they impact the profession and those we serve. We use a social justice framework to inform library and information science workers' development of resources. We strive to create an association culture where these concerns are incorporated into everybody's everyday work. 

ALA’s Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services (ODLOS) has provided guidance for conference attendees who may be interested in sessions targeting equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). The sessions are grouped by session type with definitions to guide attendees through the selections. Please note that this information was curated by ODLOS specifically, there may be some flexibility in each session’s categorization and/or level of understanding. The links below can help you find relevant sessions based on the type of event you wish to attend.

• Auditorium Speakers
• Chair/President Programs
• Meetings
• Discussion Groups
• Symposiums
• News You Can Use
• Institutes
• Award Programs
• Social Celebrations
• Orientations
   

Recognition of Indigenous History of Philadelphia 

The American Library Association would like to acknowledge the indigenous history of Philadelphia. We recognize the original custodians and keepers of this land as the Lenape People (also known as the Delaware People).  We also recognize all the Indigenous people who have passed through this area and those who continue to call this area home.  Finally, we recognize the deep and lasting political, cultural, scientific, and creative impacts of the Indigenous people of Turtle Island.

Diversely-Owned Businesses

Additionally, ALA’s Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services would like to honor the individuals who make Philadelphia a diverse, vibrant, and dynamic city through its restaurants, museums, cultural centers, and businesses. View the map of the region’s diversely-owned businesses. 

If there is a business or organization you think we should add to our map, please e-mail your suggestion to [email protected].