The maintenance of diverse and inclusive collections is a core tenant of collection development at the Marriott Family Library. Diverse and inclusive collections have 1) content written by people representing a wide array of identities, including those from marginalized and underrepresented groups, 2) contain a wide variety of ideas, information, stories, and experiences, and 3) have content that is available in multiple formats.

Drawing upon the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights, “books and other library resources [are] provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials [are] not excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.” The principle of intellectual freedom is at the very core of a collection development practice that prioritizes diversity and inclusivity. Ultimately, the inclusion of diverse stories, story-tellers, perspectives, and ideas is integral to fostering a true sense of caring, challenging, and community.