본문 바로가기
  • Home

Understanding Librarians’ Perceptions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion(DEI) Programs in Public Libraries

  • Journal of the Korean Biblia Society for Library and Information Science
  • 2025, 36(2), pp.129~153
  • Publisher : Journal Of The Korean Biblia Society For Library And Information Science
  • Research Area : Interdisciplinary Studies > Library and Information Science
  • Received : May 23, 2025
  • Accepted : June 5, 2025
  • Published : June 30, 2025

Juhee Park 1 나은엽 2

1경북대학교 문헌정보학과
2경북대학교

Accredited

ABSTRACT

This study aims to examine librarians’ perceptions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative-related programs in South Korea. To achieve this, the websites of selected public libraries were analyzed and in-depth individual interviews were conducted with 9 public librarians. The analysis revealed that only 5% of all library programs qualified as DEI programs, and most were targeted at a limited range of user groups. Furthermore, these programs were predominantly short-term or one-time events, highlighting limitations in sustainability and diversity. Although librarians recognized DEI as a core value aligned with the mission of public libraries, they faced significant challenges in implementing such programs due to limited funding, staffing shortages, and lack of institutional support. The study identifies the need for strengthened policy support, inter-organizational collaboration, and comprehensive outreach strategies to enhance the effectiveness of DEI programs. As an exploratory study of DEI awareness in Korean public libraries—still in its early stages—this research provides a foundational basis for future studies and practical advancements in DEI-related library services.

Citation status

* References for papers published after 2023 are currently being built.