The 2015 American Community Survey reflects that approximately 8.7 percent or 6,201 residents in our community identify as speaking English less than “very well .” Acknowledging that Arlington Heights is an ever-changing community and that non-native English speaking residents are under-served, the library looked within our organization to assess our daily operations, programs and services to create a more accessible, culturally competent and welcoming place for all.

Assessment teams were assembled to research and advise cross-departmentally, on how the library can identify and implement changes to meet the needs of a diversifying community. Opportunities for integrating translation tools, diversifying programs and print and electronic materials are being explored. By communicating to customers that these assessments are taking place, the library is creating an environment for residents to prioritize inclusivity and better represent library users and the world.

An environment where staff are educated and emboldened to assess the library’s services and spaces in order to respond to the needs of the community is an anticipated outcome. Impacting customers daily lives through programming, resources, services and community partnerships is a goal. The assessment teams will reach out to under-served audiences in the community to better qualify their needs and contribute their thoughts and ideas for how to make the library more equitable.