Diversity at Penn Libraries: Overview

Community Outreach to West Philadelphia Public Schools
Contact Gina Pambianchi for more information. For more information see GOLD History and Initiatives tab.

"Understanding and appreciating diversity is fundamental to success in today’s world.  It is fundamental to the education we provide at Penn and one of our University’s most important priorities." President Amy Gutmann

Group on Library Diversity (GOLD) Charge

Purpose

The Group on Library Diversity (GOLD) supports the University of Pennsylvania Libraries Diversity Statement, including its commitment to foster and ensure a welcoming and respectful environment for all library staff and users.

GOLD provides training and informational programs, assists with the recruitment process, and serves as a resource for raising awareness about diversity. Mission and Responsibilities: GOLD works with staff, Administrative Council, and the Libraries Human Resources Office to promote and support a diverse workforce within the Libraries.

GOLD is charged with the following tasks and objectives:

Recruitment

Create an online presence for the Libraries diversity initiatives, including GOLD. Assess and make proposals that improve the Libraries recruitment process, such as: broaden the distribution of position postings; have the Libraries Affirmative Action Compliance Officer aid search committees in their initial review of applicants; assist with recruitment training that focuses on the benefits of a diverse staff.

Staff Engagement

Plan programs that reflect the Libraries commitment to diversity: staff training; guest speakers; highlight the Libraries collections promoting diversity; community building events.

• Encourage staff engagement in diversity initiatives.
• Collaborate and build coalitions with the University and community groups that support and celebrate diversity.

Assessment

• Establish an annual review process that monitors the progress of GOLD’s efforts.
• Review the Libraries’ recruitment, hiring, and retention practices.
• Review the University’s EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity) report on the Libraries.
• Consult with the Libraries’ Affirmative Action Compliance Officer on applicant pools and hiring outcomes.
• Conduct staff surveys to assess the workplace climate and diversity related topics.
• Establish a benchmark for tasks and objectives as necessary.

Members:

• Chava Spivak-Birndorf (co-chair)
• Rebecca Stuhr (co-chair)
• April James
• Aman Kaur
• Holly Zerbe
• Jon Shaw (executive sponsor)
• Manuel de la Cruz Gutierrez
• Nicky Agate
• Ralph De Lucia
• Richard Herendeen