FAU Libraries’ Diversity and Inclusion Committee

Dean's Statements on Diversity

The FAU Libraries’ Diversity & Inclusion Committee was launched in November 2016, and since then has been committed to celebrating diversity with the FAU Community through events, training, and educational opportunities. Events and activities include:

• Writing the FAU Libraries’ first ever diversity and inclusion statement.
• Assisting in creating the Library Diversity Strategic Plan Goal.
• Sponsoring a Human Library event at both the Boca and Jupiter campuses.
• Assisting with the Black History Month display.
• Sponsoring the Progressive Black Men’s “Joy & Magic” evening gala.
• Celebrating Women’s History Month with the #herstory multimedia presentation, as well as having patrons create Women’s History mini posters and buttons.
• Partnering with the FAU Police Department for Sexual Awareness Denim Day.
• Partnering with the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities for an Autism 101 Lunch & Learn.
• Partnering in a children’s book drive with Zeta Phi Beta, with the collected books donated to local Autism resource centers.
• Implementing staff training, including a “Safe Spaces in Higher Education” webinar.
• Commemorating the Pulse Nightclub shooting with a multimedia exhibit.
• Working with the Exhibit Committee to create an OwlPride multimedia exhibit to celebrate PRIDE.
• Projects currently in progress include creating a Library Diversity and Inclusion resources webpage, and implementing a Diversity Intern position. 

The Libraries’ Diversity and Inclusion Committee is charged to make recommendations to the Dean on:

• defining the scope of diversity needs within the context of the University’s and the Libraries’ strategic plans and mission statements
• reviewing FAU Libraries services, collections, and technology to ensure full support for people of all backgrounds and perspectives
• the development of signature events, services, collections, and exhibits to promote diversity and inclusion
• improving the library’s work environment to ensure a safe, welcoming, supportive environment for all Libraries faculty and staff
• arranging staff development opportunities to increase awareness and appreciation of different backgrounds and perspectives reviewing recruitment and hiring practices within the Library to promote diversity and inclusion
• reviewing policies and procedures to remove obstacles and promote greater diversity and inclusion
• developing the Libraries as role models for diversity for the FAU community

Membership for 2016-2017

• Melanie Poloff, Chair
• Eric Bush
• Erica Cabezas-Marchese
• Sheri Edwards
• Tiffany Follin
• Rachael Neu
• Alethea Perez
• Ali Taal