Call for Proposals
Inclusive Practices: Advancing Access and Belonging in Academic Libraries
We are pleased to invite chapter proposals for the forthcoming ACRL publication Inclusive Practices: Advancing Access and Belonging in Academic Libraries. This book will center on how academic libraries can navigate today’s challenging political landscape while still advancing inclusion, equity, and access.
Contributions are welcome from librarians, educators, administrators, and researchers who are advancing equity and inclusion through their work. (Authors are welcome to remain anonymous in the published version of the book if they prefer.) This publication aims to share practical insights, evidence-based approaches, and personal narratives that inspire a more inclusive and equitable future for academic libraries:
Provide practical, real-world strategies for advancing inclusivity in academic libraries amidst anti-DEI legislation and backlash
Center the historical and ethical role of libraries as inclusive institutions
Offer guidance for both administrators at all levels and librarians leading from the middle on leading with integrity in politically charged climates
Equip libraries to influence broader institutional culture and resilience through action, not rhetoric
Topics could include:
Section I: Library Leaders Creating Cultures of Inclusivity
Getting Started: Introducing an Inclusive Culture to Your Library
Best Practices for Inclusive Management in Academic Libraries
Helping Early Career Librarians Support Inclusivity from the Beginning
Working with Resistant Colleagues
Section II: Learning about Inclusivity
Lifelong Learning of Inclusivity
Beginning Inclusivity Training: Where Can You Learn the Basics?
Advanced Inclusivity Training: When You’ve Learned the Basics, Where Can You Learn More?
Section III: Librarians Leading and Practicing Inclusivity
How Can Librarians Lead Inclusive Practice from the Middle?
Coaching Colleagues in Inclusivity
Culture of Humility in Workplace/Academic/Community Contexts
Tools for Assessing Inclusivity and Climate on Campus
Section IV: Inclusivity in Specific Areas of Work
Inclusivity in Instruction
Inclusivity in Reference/Research Consultancy
Inclusivity in Special Collection & Archives
Inclusivity in Collection Management & Cataloging
Inclusivity in Library Human Resources
Section V: Academic Libraries Serving as Models of Inclusivity for their Institutions
How Academic Libraries Can Lead the Way for Inclusivity across their Institutions
How Academic Libraries Can Support Faculty Across Campus in Inclusive Teaching
Closing Words: A Vision for the Future
Submission Details
Please submit a proposal including author names, job titles, emails, and institutional affiliations. Also include a working chapter title, an abstract up to 500 words, and a link to a current CV or list of publications.
Proposal deadline: November 24, 2025
Notification of acceptance: December 22, 2025
Chapter drafts due: May 1, 2026
Chapter drafts returned to authors for revisions: July 15, 2026
Chapter length: [e.g., 4,000–6,000 words]
Submission contact: inclusive.practices.
2027@gmail.com
We encourage diverse perspectives and welcome contributions from both emerging and experienced voices in the profession. We also welcome proposals for additional topics that align with the themes outlined in this call.
