Library Collections

We recognize that descriptions used in our catalogue may contain outdated, harmful and offensive language including racist terminology and stereotypes.

We're actively working to identify and update metadata structured around Eurocentric and biased language and, where possible, replace it with language that's respectful and inclusive. This effort includes cataloguing with First Nations House of Learning (FNHL) subject headings, adding broader terminology subject headings to records where all headings focus on a specific group or community, and not using culture, gender, race, sexuality, etc. as the sole identifying feature of a person.

The library follows metadata standards established by Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH) and the Rules for Archival Description (RAD) to organize and describe materials. However, these standards often replicate and reinforce inherent biases stemming from the cultural context in which the standards and vocabularies are created.

Our goal is not to erase harmful and offensive terms from our catalogue; it's our intent to intervene and create updated metadata that is equitable, diverse and inclusive. Our objective is to provide inclusive terms as a discovery access point for research.

The OCAD University Library aims to foster an accountable, respectful and inclusive environment and openly reject biased views. If you encounter records with harmful language, content or inaccurate statements in our library and archival collections, or if you have any questions about our work, please let us know by emailing us.

Acknowledgements: Western Libraries. Problematic Language in the Library Catalogue