More Than a Study Spot: How Libraries Foster Belonging

Posted on January 7, 2025 in Blog Posts

The concept of belonging has emerged as a key focus in discussions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion. As Douglas Fisher and Nancy Frey highlight in their paper “What Does It Mean to Belong?”, Stanford researcher Geoffrey Cohen defines belonging as “the feeling that we’re part of a larger group that values, respects, and cares for us—and to which we feel we have something to contribute” in his book Belonging (2022). But what does this mean within the context of academic libraries? 

Belonging in academic libraries has long been a nuanced and critical topic, deeply intertwined with questions of identity, inclusion, and the evolving role libraries play in higher education. Far more than quiet places for study, academic libraries are vibrant hubs for knowledge sharing, cultural expression, and community building. However, fostering a true sense of belonging in these spaces goes beyond offering resources or services. It requires intentional efforts to address the diverse experiences and needs of all users. 

In this blog post, I will examine how academic libraries can meet the challenge of creating inclusive environments. From diversifying collections to ensuring all voices feel heard and valued, I will explore strategies that help transform academic libraries into spaces where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered. 

Addressing Diverse Experiences

Belonging is not simply about offering a quiet corner to study; it entails creating an environment where diverse identities, experiences, and voices are not only respected but celebrated. Fostering a sense of belonging in these spaces requires intentionality. The reality is that belonging looks different for everyone. For some students, the library feels like a hangout spot, a place of comfort and refuge. For others, systemic barriers, microaggressions, and the broader institutional culture can make the space feel alienating. Academic libraries have a responsibility to address these inequities by adopting inclusive practices. This can include diversifying collections to reflect a range of cultures and experiences, offering culturally responsive programming, and hiring staff who mirror the diversity of the student body. Representation matters—seeing yourself reflected in the space affirms your right to be there.

The Impact of Belonging on Student Success

Research shows that a sense of belonging significantly impacts student success. When students feel connected to their academic environment, they are more likely to excel, engage, and persist. Academic libraries play a crucial role in this by providing resources and services that cater to the diverse needs of their users. For instance, libraries can create study areas designed for different preferences—e.g., quiet zones for individual work and communal spaces for collaboration. These thoughtfully designed spaces enhance user experience and promote inclusivity by catering to diverse needs, ensuring everyone feels welcome and supported in their learning environment.

Representation Within Collections

Representation within collections is another critical component of belonging. Libraries should curate materials that reflect a range of voices, cultures, and identities. This means including works that challenge stereotypes and amplify underrepresented perspectives. Such efforts show students that their stories and experiences are seen and valued. Equally important is ensuring that services are accessible and tailored to meet the community’s unique needs. Librarians offer one-on-one consultations, integrate information literacy programs into courses, and provide support to ensure staff are equipped to support diverse users by letting them know about the diversity within the library’s collections.

Building Community

Libraries must also engage in honest dialogue with their communities. Listening to the concerns of students, faculty, and staff can uncover ways that policies or practices unintentionally exclude or harm certain groups. By prioritizing transparency, empathy, and equity, libraries can adapt to meet the needs of all users. This is not about perfection but rather continuous progress to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.

Beyond resources and collections, academic libraries can be central hubs for community building. Events and programs celebrating diversity can foster connections among students, while opportunities for student involvement in library decision-making processes can deepen their sense of ownership and belonging. Culturally relevant practices, such as incorporating a pedagogy of care, can also enhance engagement with students from marginalized backgrounds. When students see their culture and experiences reflected in the library’s programming, it reinforces the message that they belong.

Navigating Times of Protest

Library spaces are more than just places to store books; they are arenas where expression, debate, and reflection come to life. Students may use the library to protest, to voice their frustrations with their university, or to speak out against their government’s involvement in global injustices. These moments reveal the dual identity of academic libraries as both learning spaces and civic engagement platforms.

Protests, by their very nature, are designed to challenge the status quo and create discomfort to draw attention to important issues. This fundamental aspect of protest often clashes with the traditional view of academic libraries as quiet sanctuaries for study and research. However, academic libraries must grapple with the reality that they are not isolated from their institutions’ broader social and political contexts. As evidenced by recent events at Harvard’s Widener Library, where students and faculty engaged in silent “study-ins” to protest various issues, libraries are increasingly becoming sites of demonstration. These actions force libraries to confront the tension between maintaining an environment conducive to academic pursuits and supporting the right to free expression and dissent. While some argue that any form of protest in libraries is disruptive, others contend that silent demonstrations are compatible with the library’s function and that banning them may infringe on free speech. As academic institutions navigate these challenges, they must carefully be strategic in their commitment to academic freedom, the right to protest, and the need to maintain spaces for learning and research.

Even during times of protest or tension, libraries can reaffirm their commitment to belonging. Offering inclusive programming that addresses topics being protested provides a constructive environment for students to engage with the issues. Libraries can also highlight collections that explore social and political topics, demonstrating their dedication to representing all voices and perspectives. These actions show that the library is where students—even in moments of frustration or dissent—can feel heard and supported.

Ultimately, fostering belonging in academic libraries requires ongoing communication, flexibility, and intentionality. It is about creating a space where every student feels they have a right to be there. Regardless of background or belief, academic libraries are not just quiet spaces to study; they are vital parts of the campus community where knowledge, identity, and connection intersect. By prioritizing equity and inclusivity, libraries can become environments where all students feel seen, supported, and inspired to succeed.

About the author:

Jamia Williams (she/her) is a health sciences librarian. She is also the co-creator and co-host of the podcast LibVoices and the founder of The Diversity Fellow’s blog.

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Header image is a detail of This is Harlem by Jacob Lawrence. Courtesy of Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. © 2021 The Jacob and Gwendolyn Knight Lawrence Foundation, Seattle / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. For more information, click here.

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