Collaborative and Active Engagement at the Hemispheric University: Supporting Ethnic Studies through Academic Library Outreach at University of Miami

Abstract

While librarians, curatorial and archival faculty, and staff at the University of Miami Libraries (UML) routinely support ethnic scholarship at the University of Miami (UM), library personnel, along with administrative members, have in recent years devised new approaches in outreach and engagement to assist ethnic studies programs. With collaborative initiatives in areas of research, curricula, and programming, along with investment in personnel and cultural capitals, UML has supported ethnic studies programs and helped augment the university’s position as “The Hemispheric University.” This paper traces these efforts by examining research and exhibition guides, primary resources projects, and oral history projects. The authors argue that academic library support for ethnic studies turns on creative outreach and engagement activities. The essay also highlights, via the CREATE program, the various ways through which the University Libraries and the Lowe Art Museum (UMLLAM) have collaborated in instructional and resource projects to support specific programs in Africana, Caribbean, and Latin American studies. Recommendations discuss how academic libraries and their employees can more effectively collaborate to support ethnic studies programs.