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From the University Librarian
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Small headshot of Joseph Salem

As the intellectual and communal heart of the university, the Duke University Libraries occupy a natural space to seek understanding, prompt challenging conversations, and determine what we can do to be a fair, just, and inclusive society. In our library services, collections, staff, and spaces, we aim to recognize and reflect the broadest possible spectrum of cultures, ideas, and information. Here you will find more information about our efforts to embody the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our work, as well as specific initiatives we are undertaking to make the library experience better for all.

Joseph Salem
Rita DiGiallonardo Holloway University Librarian & Vice Provost for Library Affairs

Collage of Perkins Bostock Library with people standing outside and students inside library

Duke University Libraries Guiding Principle on Diversity

Diversity strengthens us: We rely on diverse opinions, backgrounds, and experiences to make better decisions and to invigorate our organization. We are inclusive, supportive, and respectful, ensuring that multiple points of view are heard and understood. We seek to reflect the diversity of our patron communities in our services, collections, staff, and spaces. We build, maintain, and provide access to an international and multilingual collection, representing the broadest possible spectrum of cultures, ideas, and information.

A Statement of Our Commitment

On June 8, 2020, in response to the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery, as well as numerous other abuses of power against Black Americans, the Duke University Libraries issued a public statement of our commitment to combatting racism and racial injustice. Read the full statement. 

Racial Equity Roadmap

Structural racism and injustice are part of the very fabric of our communities and institutions, and their longstanding impact must be addressed. This roadmap represents the Duke University Libraries’ efforts to plan and prioritize our commitment to living up to our stated guiding principle, “Diversity Strengthens Us.” It outlines specific actions we are taking and milestones we aim to reach in the areas of community reflection, recruitment and retention, inclusive library spaces, collections and description, research and instruction, and reckoning with Duke’s history. Read the Racial Equity Roadmap.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council (DivE-In) 

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council (DivE-In) is a standing library committee with broad organizational representation charged with deepening our understanding of racism and bias within the Duke University Libraries, and with strengthening relationships, skills, and analysis to help us become a more just, equitable, and inclusive workplace. Learn more about DivE-In.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives at the Duke Libraries

From library user studies on underserved Duke student populations, to revised principles for cataloging and describing library collections, we are undertaking a variety of initiatives to improve the library experience for all. Learn more about diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at the Duke Libraries.

Anti-Racism and Black Liberation Resources

In response to the Duke community’s call for education as a prelude to action, Heather Martin, Librarian for African and African American Studies, put together a resource guide on anti-racism and Black liberation. It focuses on books, videos, and other resources available through the Duke University Libraries. See the resource guide.