As a photographer, I know the impact a photo can have firsthand. As I have perused social media, websites, and promotional materials from libraries, I have seen earnest attempts to better represent communities and ones that feel like they could have been lifted from ’50s-era television in how white-washed they are. How libraries represent themselves matters. It matters for those who see themselves reflected in a library space, matters for their comfort level and ability to engage with librarians, and it matters for their ability to use the programs offered. For a greater exploration of these topics and highlighting voices of people affected by and working to enhance diversity in libraries, the ALA features an extensive compilation of advocacy materials devoted to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts.
Returning to the element of photography, as I researched stock images for use in this blog, I came across a few valuable sites that far surpassed what I imagined I would find. One of these is The Gender Spectrum Collection, which has created images of trans and nonbinary individuals and provided them via Creative Commons for respectful use in media. The organization strives to provide positive and varied representation via these stock images.
Another website featuring images that can be used under a Creative Commons license is Disabled And Here. This collection of images and stories is created by and features disabled Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC). The site also features short quotes from the models in the photos.
Both of these vital image collections aim to provide media with images that enhance the visibility and diversity of representation of their respective communities. When we create photograph-centric library communication, we can thoughtfully and respectfully incorporate projects like The Gender Spectrum Collection and Disabled And Here and widen the visible impact and inclusivity of our messaging.
Verbose Vantages 