Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility at U of I Library

The University of Idaho "welcomes and respects all people. Diversity and inclusion are the core of our community and we embrace them as our guiding principles."

University of Idaho Diversity and Inclusion Statement

The University of Idaho Library affirms these values and is committed to actively welcoming, centering, and prioritizing diverse perspectives and experiences - including those from historically marginalized backgrounds - in our services, programs, spaces, and workforce.

DEI Resources U of I Land Acknowledgement
U of I Library IDEA Committee Commitment to Act Against Racism Feedback
Photograph of University of Idaho Class of 1899
University of Idaho Class of 1899, including first African American student to graduate from the U of I, Jennie Eva Hughes Smith

University of Idaho Library personnel work to recognize the explicit and implicit biases which prevent us from providing the services, collections, programs, and safe spaces that reflect and promote the diverse environment that we strive to create. We individually and collectively take decisive action to engage in addressing and counteracting our personal and organizational biases.

The University of Idaho Library defines diversity, equity, and inclusion as the following:

  • Diversity: The University of Idaho Library acknowledges and welcomes the presences of differences. We are committed to taking decisive actions to eliminate discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion based on differences in race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, ability, neurotype, religion, national origin, military status, height, weight, language, and political perspective.
  • Equity: The University of Idaho Library takes decisive actions to ensure that all Library users have the tools, services, resources, and safe spaces they need to be successful, regardless of background, status, beliefs, or identity.
  • Inclusion: The University of Idaho Library takes decisive actions to promote an inclusive, respectful, and safe environment by listening and responding to the needs of our Library users and Library personnel. We define inclusion as an environment where all members of our University and broader community - especially those from historically marginalized backgrounds - feel valued, respected, safe, and welcome.

U of I Library IDEA Team

The Library’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Team is charged with overseeing efforts in the Library that lead to concrete progress in the areas of justice, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

A reasonable annual goal for the IDEA Team is set by Library leadership after obtaining feedback from all Library faculty and staff. In addition to annual goals, the IDEA Team coordinates with all other Units and Teams to ensure that meaningful IDEA work is infused throughout the work of Units and Teams throughout the Library.

Feedback

Is there more the Library can do to make you feel welcome, safe, valued, and respected? Do you have suggestions for workshops or DEI-focused projects? Please fill out our Feedback Form.