Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Asian American Librarians and Library Services: Activism, Collaborations, and Strategies

What are the library services and resources that Asian Pacific Americans need? What does it mean to be an Asian Pacific American librarian in the 21st century? In Asian American Librarians and Library Services: Activism, Collaborations, and Strategies, library professionals and scholars share reflections, best practices, and strategies, and convey the critical need for diversity in the LIS field, library programming, and resources to better reflect the rich and varied experiences and information needs of Asian Americans in the US and beyond. The contributors show that they care deeply about diversity, that they acknowledge that it is painfully lacking in so many aspects of libraries and librarianship, and that libraries and the LIS profession must systematically integrate diversity and inclusion into their strategic priorities and practices, indeed, in their very mission, such that the rich diversity of experiences and histories of Asian Americans in library and archival collections, services, and programming are not only validated and recognized, but also valued and celebrated as vital components of the shared American experience. The volume recognizes and honors the creative and intentional work librarians do for their constituent Asian American communities in promoting resources, services, and outreach. Review Each chapter and interview in this volume is interesting and engaging and brings to light the important contributions of Asian American librarianship. This volume is likely to prove it-self an important contribution to the systemic integration of diversity and inclusion in the field, just as the editors intended.--The Library Quarterly This substantial collection offers the first comprehensive survey of the current state of Asian Pacific American (APA) librarianship and library services. By including everything from interviews with APA librarians of note to explorations of specialized archives, librarians Clarke (Stony Brook Univ.), Pun (Fresno State), and Tong (San Diego's Central Library) take readers on a deep dive into this multifaceted area of librarianship. They divide the 43 brief essays into three parts: "Collections, Exhibits, and Resources," "Services, Outreach, and Programming," and "Leadership Experiences and Perspectives." Though both public and academic libraries are discussed, the latter receive more attention. Select highlights include Michelle Lee's profile of the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association, Gerardo Colmenar's exploration of his role as an APA academic librarian dedicated to critical librarianship and activism for social justice, and Clarke's interview with Cynthia del Rosario about recruiting APA library science students for the University of Washington Information School. In a profession that remains overwhelmingly white (87 percent white, according to a 2017 ALA demographic study), even as US demographics continue to shift, this book is a welcome and invaluable celebration of diversity in librarianship and library services. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Graduate students, researchers, faculty, professionals.--CHOICE In a time of growing recognition of the need to honor cultural differences, traditions, and values, Asian American Librarians and Library Services offers a well-selected collection of essays and interviews covering resources, outreach, programming, and leadership.... The articles and interviews are authoritative, interesting, and scholarly, enhanced by occasional black-and-white photographs. Suitable--indeed necessary--for MLS programs, this is also a sound purchase for libraries with significant outreach to Asian American populations.--Booklist Essential reading for library and information professionals, educators, administrators, and students.--Library Journal, April 1, 2018 This is a book by and about Asian American librarians that come from the depth and breadth of heritage and experience. By way of library services, they tell stori