USC Libraries acknowledges that some of our descriptive language may be inaccurate, biased, offensive, or outdated. We commit to evaluating those deficiencies in our description and working to improve them. We also recognize that this will be an ongoing project as we identify problematic languages throughout the Libraries’ resource description.
We have four objectives in this ongoing project:
- identify problematic language where it exists in our metadata and description;
- remediate the language where appropriate and highlight, explain, or contextualize it otherwise;
- ensure that all holdings and items within USC Libraries are described to reflect and amplify diverse voices; and
- maintain inclusive language within areas where USC Libraries use descriptive language.
If you encounter language in USC catalog records, digitized collections, finding aids, exhibitions, or elsewhere that you find inappropriate, or if you have questions about this statement or about our work, please contact us.
Resources used in writing this statement:
- USC Archives statement
- The “List of statements on bias in library and archives description” compiled by The Cataloging Lab and in particular these institutions:
View the USC Libraries Vision, Mission, and Values.
View our Land Acknowledgement.
View our Statement on Anti-Racist Archival Description.
View our research guides on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Anti-Racist Pedagogy, and LGBTQIA+ Health and Cultural Competency.
View our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism
[September 8, 2023]