Libraries as multicultural centers

Abstract

Migration and globalization resulted in an increasing number of people with complex identities. Faster communication, ease of transportation and other 21st century forces have increased cultural diversity in many nations including the Philippines. This diversity is also very evident in institutions and libraries. Libraries play a major role in developing and culturing the civil society on the local level and that it is therefore important to strengthen their role as information, educational and cultural centers accessible to all. Cognizant of this is the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Multicultural Library Manifesto, UNESCO Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity and the Library Bill of Rights. There is a strong need for a culturally aware, committed and open-minded librarian capable of dealing with library users from different ethnic backgrounds and understanding the new function of the library in today's multicultural society. This paper will discuss how libraries respond to their role as multicultural centers through its public services such as information and instruction, reference, circulation, promotions and marketing services, and its personnel training and development.