Welcome! Creating Accessible and Inclusive Spaces in Special Collections

Ursula Romero (Outreach Librarian, Lilly Library, Indiana University Bloomington)
Jasmine Sykes-Kunk (Head of Research Services, John Hay Library, Brown University Library)

Episode summary

Jasmine Sykes-Kunk and Ursula Romero discuss a day in the life as public services librarians working in special collections. They discuss what cultural heritage work means to them, the challenges of the profession, and the things about the work that bring them joy. A heavy focus is placed on accessibility and the question of how to make people feel comfortable and welcome in a space which can feel intimidating and exclusive. They also discuss the sometimes unconventional paths they each took to enter the profession.

Keywords

archives, special collections, accessibility, education, cultural heritage