Building an Inclusive Library Sector: How a a Provincial Association is Taking Action

Abstract

Conducted in March 2025, the OLA Inclusive Libraries: State of the Sector Survey explored the state of equity, diversity, and inclusion in Ontario’s library and information sector, with specific focus on race and racism. The survey aimed to inform OLA’s anti-racism strategy and address barriers for Indigenous, Black and People of Colour (IBPOC) in both the association and the sector. With responses from over 1,100 library professionals across the province, the survey provides insights into IBPOC experiences, persistent challenges to building an equitable and inclusive sector, and opportunities for OLA to leverage its role as a provincial association to drive meaningful change. Findings highlight the continued lack of demographic diversity within the sector, particularly the underrepresentation of IBPOC library professionals in senior management and decision-making roles.

This work represents a sector-wide effort to advance anti-racism and equity within the profession, recognizing that meaningful change inside the workforce is essential to transforming outcomes for the communities libraries serve.

Aligning with the theme Transforming Lives, this report acknowledges that who works in libraries, who leads them and how workplace cultures are shaped directly influence access, representation, and trust in library services. Findings highlight persistent underrepresentation of IBPOC professionals, particularly in leadership roles and the need for safer, more accountable practices to address racism.

The report outlines clear, practical recommendations for both OLA and the broader sector, including mentorship and leadership development pathways, targeted outreach to diversify the profession, and organizational change strategies that support equity in hiring, retention and advancement.

By addressing inequities within the profession itself, this work strengthens the foundation of library services. It positions libraries to better reflect and respond to the communities they serve, ultimately contributing to more inclusive experiences across the province of Ontario.