Library Services for Multicultural Patrons

An excellent compilation of essays that will help any librarian reach his or her multicultural patrons. ... Readers of this book will be able to step outside of their cultural identities and adapt these success stories to their current needs. Any librarian trying to reach a certain cultural demographic should read this timely publication. * Booklist *
What do graphic novels, poetry readings, and oral history projects have in common? They are among many ideas used in successful outreach efforts by libraries serving ethnically diverse patrons. In this resource edited by Smallwood (Preserving Local Writers, Genealogy, Photographs, Newspapers, and Related Materials) and Becnel (library science, Appalachian State Univ.), 49 predominantly American contributors share their diversity service expertise via 37 articles arranged by theme: getting organized and finding partners, reaching students, community connections, applying technology, outreach initiatives, programming and events, and reference services. An underlying message is for librarians to leave their comfort zones, collaborate, and take risks to establish practical connections with new immigrants and other diverse populations. This comprehensive handbook—targeting academic, public, and school librarians—is the first of its kind since Katherine Hill’s Diversity and Multiculturalism in Libraries (1994) and Reaching a Multicultural Student Community by Karen E. Downing, Barbara MacAdam, and Darlene P. Nichols (1993). Staffing, funding, resource planning, and overcoming language barriers are among the topics addressed. VERDICT A useful array of ideas for administrators, IT staff, and frontline librarians seeking programming and service success with children, students, working adults, and the elderly in our increasingly multicultural world. * Library Journal *
The book will be valuable in any library where there is a growing diversity of patrons being served. * American Reference Books Annual *
Public libraries are well covered in the book. . . .The chapters are well arranged by theme, with special focus on effective community engagement and collaboration. I personally find the chapter on genealogy reference services interesting, as this subject is not often covered in any library course to prepare librarians for our aging and migrant communities who often show interest in this subject. . . .This book is a timely resource when library users come from a growing diversity of backgrounds in countries like Australia and New Zealand. * Australian Library Journal *
Covering a variety of cultures, libraries, and locations around the country, this is the right anthology at the right time. -- Kerol Harrod, Denton Public Library, Co-Editor of Marketing Your Library: Tips and Tools that Work
Society world-wide and therefore educational institutions and libraries of all types are increasingly multi-cultural. This book is a valuable and timely resource for modern librarians everywhere. -- Howard C. Bybee, Family History Librarian, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University
Covering a wide range of professional advice and instruction, this anthology is an essential guide for librarians serving diverse populations. -- Emily Griffin, Reference/Local History Librarian, Crawfordsville District Public Library; contributor to Preserving Local Writers, Genealogy, Photographs, Newspapers, and Related Materials (Scarecrow Press, 2012)
This is an exciting assortment of experiences by information professionals from a wide variety of institutions. -- Vera Gubnitskaia, Orange County Library System
The goal of any library is to be that place in the community where diversity is not just accepted but encourage, cultivated and respected. -- Brenda Lincke Fisseler, Director Friench Simpson Memorial Library Hallettsville, Texas
Our tagline is Expanding Horizons, Enriching Minds. The experience and insight shared in this new anthology will help us do just that. A thoughtful resource. -- Kerry A. FitzGerald, Assistant Director, Loutit District Library
Placing a spotlight on multicultural library users, the essays in this book provide a roadmap for effective community engagement and collaboration. -- Courtney L. Young, head librarian, Penn State Greater Allegheny and ALA Past President