How can you eliminate bias in your library's policies?

1 Identify bias

The first step to eliminate bias is to recognize and acknowledge its existence and impact. You can use various tools and methods to assess your current policies and identify any areas of bias or gaps. For example, you can use a diversity audit, a policy review checklist, a bias impact assessment, or a feedback survey. You can also consult with diverse stakeholders, such as patrons, staff, community partners, and experts, to get different perspectives and insights.

2 Challenge bias

The second step to eliminate bias is to question and confront it. You can use critical thinking, evidence-based research, and ethical principles to evaluate your policies and their outcomes. You can also use anti-bias education, training, and resources to raise awareness and sensitivity among your staff and patrons. You can also create a culture of dialogue, feedback, and accountability that encourages open and respectful communication and collaboration.

3 Change bias

The third step to eliminate bias is to revise and improve your policies to make them more inclusive and equitable. You can use best practices, standards, and guidelines from professional organizations, such as the American Library Association (ALA), to inform your policy development and implementation. You can also use action plans, benchmarks, and indicators to monitor and measure your progress and impact. You can also celebrate and share your successes and challenges with your staff, patrons, and community.

4 Review bias

The fourth step to eliminate bias is to revisit and update your policies regularly. You can use continuous improvement, evaluation, and feedback mechanisms to ensure that your policies are relevant, effective, and responsive to the changing needs and expectations of your staff, patrons, and community. You can also use learning opportunities, such as workshops, webinars, and conferences, to keep abreast of the latest trends, issues, and innovations in library services.

5 Support bias

The fifth step to eliminate bias is to seek and provide support for your policy efforts. You can use networks, alliances, and partnerships with other libraries, organizations, and groups that share your vision and values of diversity and inclusion. You can also use resources, tools, and grants from various sources, such as the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), to enhance your capacity and sustainability. You can also use recognition, appreciation, and rewards to motivate and inspire your staff and patrons.

6 Advocate bias

The sixth step to eliminate bias is to promote and defend your policies and their benefits. You can use advocacy, outreach, and marketing strategies to communicate and demonstrate the value and impact of your policies to your staff, patrons, community, and stakeholders. You can also use stories, testimonials, and examples to showcase the diversity and inclusion of your library services. You can also use influence, leadership, and collaboration to advance and support the policies of other libraries and organizations.