Diversity

Penn State University Libraries Definition of Diversity:

The University Libraries provide The Pennsylvania State University communities with equitable access to all of its information resources and services.

This access is guaranteed without regard to race, ethnicity, language, age, religion or spiritual beliefs, health, gender, sexual orientation, physical capabilities, or geographic origin.

The University Libraries are committed to providing equal access to employment and opportunity for advancement without regard to personal characteristics not related to ability, performance or qualifications as determined by University policy or by state and federal authorities.

One of the most succinct statements about the University's diversity objectives is contained in a presentation by former Provost of Penn State, John Brighton, to the University Board of Trustees in 1993. Under the topic "What Do We Mean By Diversity," Provost Brighton provided several descriptors:

• Reasonable representation from different minority groups
• Representation from different countries and cultures
• Reasonable balance of gender
• Diversity in curriculum content
• Climate supportive of different minority groups and cultures

This conception of diversity provides a viable foundation for official efforts to describe the University's diversity objectives . . . ." These two definitions together comprise the Libraries' working definitions of diversity.

Fostering Diversity in the University Libraries

A Framework to Foster Diversity at Penn State University Libraries
Strategic Plan 2004-2009