The Reckoning Initiative at the University Libraries

The University Libraries’ Reckoning Initiative represents a commitment to go beyond a mere focus on diversity and instead to use equity, inclusion and social justice as a lens for all our work. This page points to a selection of current and recent Reckoning projects at the University Libraries, as well as news and updates related to the initiative. Learn more by reading the Library’s full Reckoning Initiative Framework.

Projects

A guide compiling the practices library staff have refined as they update, edit and create new archival finding aids.

Racial equity syllabus focused on libraries and archives. Developed for our staff’s internal 21-day racial equity challenge, but with broad relevance for library and archival work.

Resources, research guides, and exhibits related to the history and controversy of Carolina’s built environment, including the 1913 Confederate monument.

Mellon-grant-funded project to support historically underrepresented history keepers in telling, sharing, and preserving their stories.

Library-wide effort to correct injustices in the way language is used in archives and special collections. Includes link to conscious editing guide.

Internally-funded program to support inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility work by University Libraries staff.

Council leading library efforts in inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.

Text-mining project to discover Jim Crow laws in NC between Reconstruction and the Civil Rights Movement (1865-1968).

Call to action challenging library staff to engage, act, and reflect on race and racial equity in our lives and in our work.


News and Updates

dark blue top with light blue bottom with words "a guide to conscious editing"

University Libraries releases guide to conscious editing for finding aids and catalog records

The guide compiles practices that UNC-Chapel Hill archivists have developed to make records more inclusive and accurate.Read more ›  
On The Books project Partnerships

South Carolina and Virginia to join University Libraries’ On the Books project

Libraries at the University of South Carolina and the University of Virginia will join work to document Jim Crow laws passed during the period between Reconstruction and the Civil Rights movement. Read more ›  
Elizabeth Cotten holding her guitar, Sparky Rucker on the left. Photo from Mike Seeger Collection

Elizabeth Cotten Resource and Subject Guide

A starting guide for anyone interested in researching and writing about Elizabeth Cotten.Read more ›  
Inclusion Diversity Equity Inclusion

Second round of staff grants funds equity and inclusion projects

Collection additions, training and a new podcast will advance the University Libraries’ Reckoning Initiative Read more ›  
Portraits of Chaitra Powell and Monica Figueroa

Figueroa, Powell named ARL Leadership Fellows

They are among 25 library professionals selected for the Leadership and Career Development Program this year.Read more ›  
Collage of magazine cutouts featuring diasporic recipes/traditions

A Place at the Table: The Influence of Black Cuisine

An exhibition and reading list showcase books and cookbooks written by Black authors that highlight Black influence on American cuisine.Read more ›  
See all News from the Libraries