The past year has brought renewed attention to the need for academic library collections to support an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusivity (DEI) in the curriculum and to reflect the increasing diversity among students and faculty. The urgent calls for maximum inclusivity and diversity in all aspects of theological education have led collection development librarians to examine and recalibrate their collecting practices and to assess existing collections. This panel of three, admittedly white, women librarians will discuss the issue of what it means to be an ally in working toward ideals of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how allyship might inform the work of collection development. The critical importance of engaging with key stakeholders, particularly those within historically underrepresented groups, in order to build more diverse collections will be emphasized. Panelists will consider the many ways that collections can represent diversity in smaller collections and varied theological contexts, and will demonstrate how to align collecting with the institution’s mission statement and/or strategic plan. There will be a discussion of displays and events that promote diverse resources and provide opportunities for collaboration with faculty, staff, and student advocacy groups.
