Social Inclusivity and Gender Equality: The Library’s Role in Promoting SDG 5

Abstract

As we reached a new decade, the United Nations (UN) and International Federation for Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) fully support the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) no matter how challenging it would be. Libraries, as social spaces, have its own capacity to influence change and lead programs that can either be an eye-opener or just simply be an advocate for positive ideas that will inspire and motivate people to be open-minded, thus transforming individuals to embrace the concept of inclusivity and diversity. Our presentation will include two successful programs namely the Week of Women and Human Library. These library programs were fully launched in our library in 2018 and 2016 respectively. After doing these programs for quite some time, we surveyed and asked the opinions of our participants including the discussants and human books about the positive and if there are any negative implications of the programs. The topic on gender equality specially those pertaining to LGBTQIA+ can be a sensitive area and may offend certain individuals. Our proposal and instrument were sent to the Institutional Research Ethics Committee of the Nazarbayev University and were approved for implementation. The results of the study showed that participants believed that gender-related programs of the library have positive effects in stimulating a gender-balanced society. 64% said that both programs are very positive in terms of encouraging a gender-neutral society. 55% said that library programs are also very positive in promoting the rights and responsibilities of women (and LGBTQIA+). 64% agreed that they are very positive in endorsing inclusivity and diversity. Only 36% said that the programs are very positive in eliminating all forms of discrimination against women, girls, (and LGBTQIA+) in public and private spheres. Lastly, 45% believed that the programs are very positive in recognizing the role and achievements of women (and LGBTQIA+) in various fields and sectors. The programs increased awareness on gender equality among the academic community and promoted the welfare and rights of marginalized sectors. These programs addressed various stigmas, thus empowering vulnerable groups to stand up to discrimination. This presentation will address SDG 5 to provide a glimpse of how libraries can advance gender equality in a post-Soviet era where patriarchy continues to be deeply rooted in the society. The Week of Women and Human Library are few leading examples to attain a gender-balanced community. These programs supporting SDGs also uplift the self-esteem and confidence of the forgotten and the invisible. The Library is committed to achieving the SDG targets by providing a diverse collection and participatory engagement from all stakeholders of the university, thus ensuring “women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision making in political, economic and public life.” Aside from this, as much as possible, the Library aims to be a bridge paving the way to eliminating gender disparity. The HL program affords an excellent opportunity to give attention to the underserved. Further supporting an end to all forms of discrimination and inequality. Social inclusivity is the key to a better community.