Library Services for Multicultural Patrons

February 1, 2013

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.--Betty J. Glass, Univ. of Nevada Lib., Reno

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.