Inclusive Services

Inclusive Services in Wisconsin Public Libraries

The Division of Libraries and Technology interprets Wis. Stat. sec. 43.24(2)(k) “Promotion and facilitation of library service to users with special needs” to encompass inclusive services. Inclusive library services are holistic, spanning library policies, collections, space, and services. Inclusive services reflect equity and accessibility for all members of the community.

Assessment and Guide

The Inclusive Services Assessment and Guide was designed by Wisconsin public library and public library system staff for Wisconsin public library directors, staff, and boards with the intent to foster inclusive library environments where everyone is safe, welcomed, and respected. This resource was developed to support libraries in implementing the Inclusive Services Statement. This resource intentionally complements the Wisconsin Public Library Standards.

A separate rubric is available to assist individuals and groups with tracking points, calculating percentages, and making comparisons; e.g., from year to year, from person to person, etc. Download the rubric as an Excel file or make a copy of the Google worksheet. Use the Inclusive Services Assessment Rubric Instructions & Tips for assistance.

In addition to the PDF version of the guide, the Inclusive Services Assessment is available as 13 individual Qualtrics surveys.
Section 1: Who Is Responsible
Governance, Administration, Staffing
Section 2: What the Library Has to Offer
Collections, Programs, Services
Section 3: Where the Interactions Take Place
Facility, Access
Section 4: How the Library Engages with the Community
Marketing, Community Engagement, Funding, Self-Care for Library Workers, Inclusive Culture at the Library