• Initiate training, programs, and awareness regarding cultural and racial diversity for the profession and the library community.

• Inititate strategies, in conjunction with the Membership and Nominating Committees, to increase cultural and racial diversity in ILA’s membership and leadership by librarians, trustees, and support staff.

• Introduce strategies to recruit workers of varied cultures and races to work in libraries and the profession.

• Provide recognition for ALA’s Spectrum scholars and encourage participation in the opportunities provided for library workers and others desiring to obtain professional library degrees.

• Encourage governing boards to reflect the cultural and racial composition of their communities.

• Seek partnerships with library institutions and organizations to support these initiatives.

• Develop, monitor, and evaluate diversity efforts in the association and report to the ILA Executive Board annually about achievements, continuing challenges, and strategies for change.

Committee membership is not more than ten personal members from diverse types of library settings.  Members serve a three-year, staggered term.  Chair is appointed by the vice president/president-elect of ILA for one year.

Visit the Cultural and Racial Diversity Committee blog.

2012-2013 Chair 

Vandella Brown 2009-2013
Illinois State Library
200 S. Second St.
Springfield, IL 62701-1796
phone: 217-586-6847
fax: 217-786-4326
e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Members

Katrina Belogorsky 2012-2015
Melody Coleman 2012-2015
Larissa Good 2012-2015
Robin Helenthal 2012-2015
Joanne Karss 2012-2015
Mary Ann Lema 2012-2015
Elizabeth Marszalik 2012-2015
Mary Medjo Me Zengue 2011-2014
Neena Nagpal 2010-2013

Board Liaison
Leora Siegel