
Health sciences librarians of African heritage: an earnest entreaty for research
Author(s) -
Charles Raymond Fikar,
Barbara Hallas
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
journal of the medical library association
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1558-9439
pISSN - 1536-5050
DOI - 10.5195/jmla.2022.1401
Subject(s) - work (physics) , medical library , diversity (politics) , public relations , library science , cultural heritage , perception , sociology , political science , engineering ethics , medical education , psychology , medicine , engineering , computer science , anthropology , mechanical engineering , neuroscience , law
In view of recent discussions of diversity in library work, it would seem prudent to have a good understanding of basic facts and considered opinions of health sciences librarians of African heritage concerning their career experiences, opportunities for advancement, perceptions of negative behavior in the library, experiences of bias and discrimination in the library, existence of special information needs of patrons of African heritage, and interactions with non-African-heritage medical librarians and staff. Since there is a dearth of literature and research on these topics, this commentary will attempt to stimulate and encourage such work by providing a brief summary of currently available literature and research and providing some ideas for future academic endeavors.