Critical Race Theory in Lis: Challenging White Supremacy in Libraries

This volume shares some of the ways that librarians and library scholars are incorporating Critical Race Theory (CRT) into the field of library and information studies. CRT provides a theoretical and analytical lens through which librarians can challenge the ways race and racism harm shape library access, collections, discourses, and services, with the goal of instigating changes that lead to social justice.

Chapter authors represent different points of views related to CRT from their unique perspective as members of minoritized groups and contributions move beyond generalized language and tackle topics directly related to race in America and how these affect the work in libraries. The way in which libraries and other information professions perpetuate racism are explored, alongside racist practices, as well as ideas on how information professionals can move beyond these systems and create institutions that support their patrons and create environments in which all are welcomed.

Critical Race Theory in LIS fulfills a need for LIS literature to focus on race issues in the profession. The work is related to the larger umbrella of DEI work and will advance Social Justice issues in the profession but from a race perspective.

Mónica Colón-Aguirre is Assistant Professor at the School of Information Science at the University of South Carolina. She is an experienced library and information science educator, focusing on information science and LIS education from a social justice perspective.

Nicole A. Cooke is Augusta Baker Chair and Professor at the School of Information Science at the University of South Carolina. Her research interests include human information behavior, fake news consumption and resistance, and diversity and social justice in librarianship.

Aisha M. Johnson is Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Outreach at the Georgia Tech Library, and is a revelator of Southern library history. In 2021, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History recognized her impactful work with the Freedom Scholar Award.

Anastasia M. Collins is Instructional Librarian & Geographer-at-Large at Phillips Academy. She developed the Anti-Oppression Guide at Simmons University Library, and delivers talks and workshops on equity work in library and information science.