Cultural Competency for Academic Libraries: Research

Cultural competence requires acknowledgment of Western cultural bias, and respectful inquiry of other systems of thought, including sources of traditional knowledge.

Categories of traditional knowledge could include: agricultural knowledge; scientific knowledge; technical knowledge; ecological knowledge; medicinal knowledge, including related medicines and remedies; biodiversity-related knowledge; “expressions of folklore” in the form of music, dance, song, handicrafts, designs, stories and artwork; elements of languages, such as names, geographical indications and symbols; and, movable cultural properties (ALA Traditional Cultural Expression Taskforce 2010).

Culturally competent researchers shall:

• Reflect on and acknowledge their ethnocentrisms and biases.
• Recognize others’ ethnocentric tendencies and biases.
• Foster sensitivity, openness, and a spirit of inquiry to others’ world views and cultural orientations.

Culturally competent organizations shall:

• Support and encourage research opportunities to explore the gaps in critical knowledge in the profession.
• Assist librarians and library staff in identifying and applying for funding, including providing time, resources, and supportive recommendations.
• Provide funding when possible.
• Assist in establishing and maintaining networks of professionals that will encourage idea development.
• Ensure that research on cultural competency, diversity issues, and related topics is valued in retention, promotion, and tenure processes.