Libraries and the Changing Face of Academia: Responses to Growing Multicultural Populations

The compositions of the student bodies of colleges and universities in the United States have changed dramatically in the recent past, with today's students representing a diverse mix of cultures, ethnic origins, gender groups, ages, and socioeconomic classes. The impact of this changing student population on educational programs and services is being felt throughout American higher education circles. This book provides an overview for librarians and educators of multicultural issues in higher education and existing library programs related to multicultural and international students. Martin explores in depth the responses to multicultural student needs by libraries at three public universities in different parts of the United States. The broader perspectives of each university and the political entity responsible for public higher education are also considered. This study demonstrates that active roles are possible for the academic library in developing support services for students of color. As part of institutional efforts to improve multicultural student retention and attainment, these libraries provide examples of responsiveness to relevant student needs in the areas of library instruction, reference services, collection development, and academic program support.