Exploring Equality and Diversity

The English department is often responsible for the library if its main purpose is to support reading.

The school library's primary aim is to align with and assist the school's overall mission and goals.

Libraries must adapt to changing circumstances to remain relevant and support current educational initiatives.

A library steering group, including students, staff, governors, and parents, should be involved in creating and implementing library policies.

A library handbook provides specific details and guidelines for using the library.

The school's library policy should align with its Equality and Diversity policy, ensuring fair resource selection and access.

Discussing library priorities and activities with senior management is a crucial step in planning and ensuring support.

A mission statement for the library clearly outlines its purpose, goals, and values, guiding its activities.

Library Operation Plans (LOPs) typically cover a period of one to two years, outlining the library's short-term plans and goals.

A needs audit helps the library identify the specific requirements and desires of the school community, ensuring resources are relevant and useful.

Gender is considered a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010, preventing discrimination and ensuring fairness.

The Data Protection Act (DPA) 2018 governs how personal information is used, stored, and shared.

The UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) covers data protection rules for individuals in the EU and UK.

Student data should be deleted from the library management system (LMS) after they leave the school, following data protection regulations.

A school's mission statement defines its educational goals and purpose, guiding its overall direction and activities.

An SDP (School Development Plan) is a strategic document that outlines the school's plans for improving standards and achieving its goals.

The school's SDP is typically revisited and updated during the summer break, allowing for reflection and strategizing for the upcoming academic year.

A SMART target in an SDP is specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely, ensuring it is clear, actionable, and achievable.

Senior management and governors are responsible for making key decisions about the school, including budget allocation and strategic direction.

Parents and carers are interested in book lists and reading recommendations to support their children's reading development and enjoyment.

Attending departmental meetings allows the librarian to understand the resource needs of teaching staff and ensure they are met.

Engaging with parents and carers through library newsletters, events, and open days helps build relationships and promote library services.

The admissions officer can provide information about the school population, including demographics, academic performance, and diversity, which helps inform library resource selection.

The pastoral team provides information about students facing challenges such as family issues, bereavement, or gender identity questions.

Selecting resources that reflect students' lives and backgrounds through diverse representation, culturally relevant materials, and diverse authors.

Surveys and informal discussions with students provide valuable insights into their reading preferences, interests, and needs.