Published: July 10, 2024 by Aryn Prestia 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have become essential elements of library organizations in the past few years, and rightfully so! With libraries serving diverse communities and striving to be accessible for all, it makes sense that DEI statements are now a part of more than 63% of library job announcements and DEI is listed as a skillset needed for qualified applicants on 32% of job posts. 

What is a DEI statement?

A DEI statement is defined as “a public commitment to fostering a diverse community and a culture of inclusivity” (Harvard Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, n.d.) These statements can be used by hiring organizations to state their mission and by applicants to state their values. These statements can help to ensure that a hiring relationship will be a good match and to hold each party accountable for upholding their respective mission and values. 

Many Academic positions are beginning to require DEI statements as a part of their job applications and even some professors at the iSchool require students to craft their own statement during their courses. 

Writing the Statement 

A diversity statement should be thought of as a narrative - tracing your past experiences, present self, and future plans (The Writing Center, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill).

• Have you worked in a setting that was accessible and inclusive?
• How has your personal identity impacted your relationship with inclusivity?
• How might you apply learnings about diversity to your career?

Example Statements From Libraries

While your personal DEI statement should include more about your own story and experiences, it can be helpful to review the statements of organizations you are interested in or admire:

• Santa Clara City Library
• Enoch Pratt Free Library, Baltimore
• University of California Berkeley Library

Use this summer to think through your relationship with accessibility and inclusivity so that you are better prepared to speak on these topics during your job search.

Selected Career Opportunities

• Assistant Curator, Collections at Museum of Jewish Heritage, New York, NY.
• Library Specialist at University of North Texas-Health Sciences Center, Fort Worth, TX.