Looking Back: A Reflection on Experiences of Diversity and Inclusion in the LIS Field

Abstract

Purpose

This chapter is a first-person exploration of the process of pursing a doctoral degree and a faculty career as a person of color in the field of library and information science.

Methodology/approach

The chapter focuses on the varying levels of diversity and inclusion in LIS practice and education and the impacts of those differences on who enters the field, what gets taught, and who stays in the field.

Findings

The chapter concludes that there are varied levels of diversity and inclusion in library and information science practice and education and that the racial biases and insensitivities encountered in the field can have significant impacts on persons of color in the field.

Citation

Rodriguez-Mori, H. (2016), "Looking Back: A Reflection on Experiences of Diversity and Inclusion in the LIS Field", Celebrating the James Partridge Award: Essays Toward the Development of a More Diverse, Inclusive, and Equitable Field of Library and Information Science (Advances in Librarianship, Vol. 42), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 197-205. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0065-283020160000042019