Auditing Diversity in Library Collections

This practical guide provides library professionals with essential frameworks for conducting meaningful diversity audits of their collections, moving beyond theory to offer concrete, actionable strategies. Voels clearly explains why these assessments are crucial for developing library holdings that accurately reflect both local communities and the broader global landscape. The book presents multiple audit approaches that can be adapted to different institutional capacities and collection sizes, making the process accessible regardless of available resources. Each methodology is presented with clear implementation steps that help librarians move from intention to action in evaluating collection inclusivity.

What distinguishes this work is its realistic acknowledgment that perfect representation is an ongoing process rather than a finite goal, allowing libraries to begin where they are and build toward more comprehensive assessments over time. The guidance proves particularly valuable for collection development librarians, library administrators, and anyone responsible for ensuring that library materials serve diverse readerships authentically. Voels' approach transforms what could feel like an overwhelming institutional undertaking into manageable, purposeful projects with clear objectives. This resource ultimately empowers libraries to create more inclusive collections through systematic evaluation and thoughtful acquisition practices.