Decolonization and Reconciliation Work in Public Libraries: An Analysis of Strategic Plans

Dinesh Rathi

doi:10.29173/cais1204

Abstract

The 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada report provides valuable guidance and critical foundation on decolonization and reconciliation in Canada. Public institutions including universities and libraries have affirmed their commitment towards reconciliation and decolonization by undertaking initiatives and establishing both short- and long-term goals. This research examines strategic plans posted on the organizational websites of nine Canadian public library systems operating in cities with significant Indigenous population. The findings suggest that different library systems made varying levels of explicit and/or implicit commitment towards reconciliation and decolonization.

Highlights

Decolonization involves removing both visible and invisible barriers and structures which bring colonial power and control into play (Ashcroft et al 2001; Smith 2010)
Public institutions including public libraries can demonstrate their commitment towards decolonization and reconciliation by setting goals and objectives in their strategic plans
This paper presents findings emerging from the analysis of the strategic plans posted on the organizational websites of nine Canadian public libraries

Summary

Introduction

Decolonization involves removing both visible and invisible barriers and structures which bring colonial power and control into play (Ashcroft et al 2001; Smith 2010). For example, demonstrate their commitment towards reconciliation and decolonization by taking actions in a number of areas such as spaces (online and physical), programs and services, and collections (Rathi and Wiebe 2020). Public institutions including public libraries can demonstrate their commitment towards decolonization and reconciliation by setting goals and objectives in their strategic plans. The paper aims to fill a gap in literature in the critical area of decolonization and reconciliation in the Library and Information Science (LIS) field in the Canadian context, public libraries. The aim of this research is to prompt LIS institutions to include decolonization- and reconciliation-oriented efforts as goals and objectives in their future iterations of strategic plans

Objectives

Methods

Conclusion