The purpose of the Diversity Committee is to increase awareness and inclusion of diversity in the Illinois libraries. The Committee’s primary objectives are:
❖ Initiate and promote training and library services that address issues in diversity.
❖ Identify and promote best practices and resources for diversity and inclusion in library profession and services.
❖ Identify and promote strategies to recruit and retain diverse workers in Illinois libraries.
❖ Provide mentoring and support for ALA’s Spectrum scholars and other diverse individuals in Illinois in obtaining a graduate degree and leadership positions within the profession.
❖ Develop, monitor, evaluate, and recommend diversity efforts in the association and initiate strategies, in conjunction with the Nominating Committee, to increase diversity in ILA’s membership and leadership. The ILA Diversity Committee adopted the following broad definitions of diversity and inclusion. Diversity is the range of human differences, including but not limited to race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital and/or familial status, mental and/or physical impairment and/or disability, military status, economic status, political affiliation, and other human distinguishing characteristics. Inclusion is involvement and empowerment, where the inherent worth and dignity of all people are recognized. Committee membership is not more than ten personal members from diverse types of library settings. Members serve three-year, staggered terms. Chair is appointed by the vice president/president-elect of ILA for one year.
