The Definition of Diversity: Two Views. A More Inclusive Definition

SUMMARYThis article describes the Association of Research Libraries' (ARL) definition of diversity and informs its programmatic engagement of diversity initiatives. ARL defines diversity broadly in order to encompass individual and group membership, as well as to consider historical context, legal issues and barriers, and changing social views and connection to these issues. Further, the research library managers' role, and organizational development trends, make diversity inextricable from the day-to-day operations of libraries. The author describes diversity in a context of other, closely related concepts including: equity, culture and cultural pluralism, affirmative action, and equal employment opportunity. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: getinfo@hawortlipressinc.com]