Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Purpose

The FFPL Board recognizes its responsibility in fostering, cultivating and supporting a culture of equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging and strives to make FFPLTC a truly inclusive place in the community.

Declaration

FFPLTC is committed to fostering an environment which makes equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging a priority in planning, training and decision making for staffing, collections, services, and spaces. FFPLTC endorses the CFLA Position Statement of Diversity and Inclusion prepared by the Canadian Federation of Library Associations which reads:

“The Canadian Federation of Library Associations (CFLA-FCAB) believes that a diverse and pluralistic society is central to our country’s identity. Libraries have a responsibility to contribute to a culture that recognizes diversity and fosters social inclusion.

Libraries strive to deliver inclusive service. Canada’s libraries recognize and energetically affirm the dignity of those they serve, regardless of heritage, education, beliefs, race, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental capabilities, or income.

Libraries understand that an acceptance of differences can place individual and collective values in conflict. Libraries are committed to tolerance and
understanding. Libraries act to ensure that people can enjoy services free from any attempt by others to impose values, customs or beliefs.”

Collections

FFPLTC will provide diverse collections relating to cultures, languages, religious traditions, and peoples, in all formats from books to audio and video materials. A broad range of authors, content creators and experiences will be included and highlighted in our collection. Our bibliographic database will use subject headings and descriptors which are more inclusive, including the use of Indigenous Subject Headings as they become available.

Services and Programming

When planning and delivering services and programs, FFPLTC will work with the community to develop inclusive consultation and engagement processes in appropriate ways. We will seek to understand how diverse community groups define and describe themselves and we will listen to and learn from communities rather than relying on indirect sources.

In the spirit of equity, diversity and inclusion for all members, the library welcomes the exhibit of displays and provision of programs and services that reflect and fit within local community groups (e.g., displays during various religious holidays, culturally significant dates, etc.)

Spaces

FFPLTC will provide welcoming spaces for all. Our spaces will be inclusive and free of bias.