Inclusivity in the Library
We want Norwich University of the Arts Library to be a safe and welcoming space for the whole of our community. Below are some of the ways that we are trying to make everyone feel included, as well as a selection of resources to both support and inspire you. We would also love to hear your ideas, so please get in touch!
What are we doing in the Library to help everyone feel included and supported?
- We are working to ensure we have a wide variety research material that supports and inspires all types of learners (and not just books!). This is a constantly evolving discussion. If you would like to suggest an item please let us know by filling in a New item request form, email us, or come up and have a chat with us. (This includes a project we’re working on called “Decolonising the Library“).
- We have created bite-sized online workshops and tutorials that you can access at any time, from anywhere, and can re-visit as needed (see the Library’s VLE tile).
- We are running weekly drop-in sessions where you can get help from a librarian. Check the Library’s VLE tiles for dates and times.
- You can also book one-to-one sessions with a librarian, just contact us to arrange a time.
- We don’t issue fines. If your books become overdue, we’ll send you a reminder email.
- All library staff regularly attend workshops to increase awareness of current issues and learning differences in the university and beyond. This helps us to monitor and improve the services that we are providing for you.
- The Library is an open plan space, which means there may be a low level of noise. If you prefer to work silently, we have noise cancelling headphones available to borrow from the helpdesk.
- We work with SU Societies to have themed book displays that feed into collection development.
If you have any suggestions to help us be more inclusive, please do get in touch. After all, we are here to support you!
Library Resources discussing Inclusivity
Please find below suggested reading. We have purposely created short reading lists as starting points for enquiry.
To find other items search Discovery the library catalogue. Useful keywords might be: inclusivity, wellbeing, mental health, neurodiversity, dyslexia, autism, lgbt, lgbtq+, disability, feminist, non-binary, queer, transgender, anti-racist, class.
If you need a reminder on how to use the Library catalogue check out the bitesize “how to” video tutorials below.
Basic catalogue search tutorial (opens in a new window)
Disability resources
We have divided the library Disability page into 3 sections – Disability: Support / Disability: Resources/ Disability: Personal experiences & disabled artists – please click on the link below to access them.
Inclusivity: Disability ResourcesWorking class students
See below for a link to our page of resources based on working class experiences – we have separated them into things to read, things to watch, and things to listen to.
Inclusivity: Working Class students' resourcesInclusive fiction
Online displays
See below some examples of previous online displays. We also have displays in the Library about relevant topics and issues, please get in touch if you or your society would like to create your own online or physical display.
