Publication Date
Fall 12-7-2025
Document Type
Student Project
First Advisor
Koss, Melanie
Degree Name
B.S. (Bachelor of Science)
Department
School of Family and Consumer Sciences
Abstract
A classroom bookshelf diversity audit allows students to find “mirrors, windows, and glass sliding doors” in the books they choose to read. This metaphor means students will find their identities reflected in books (mirrors), learn about other’s identities (windows), and finally, be put into other perspectives (glass sliding doors). In this diversity audit, a selection of 100 books at the Child Development and Family Center at Northern Illinois University were read and analyzed. Findings showed diverse representation for race, ethnicity, and family type. However, showed a need for books containing content with religion, disability, and linguistic diversity, as most books contained non-religious and able-bodied content, and were written in English. As a result of completing a diversity audit, one can determine the statistics as to which identities are most represented or may need representation in the classroom. This way, a classroom library is more refined to better reflect diverse identities, both for children to see themselves in, and to learn from.
Recommended Citation
Ortega, M. (2025). Northern Illinois University’s Child Development and Family Center “Diversity Bookshelf” Audit
Suggested Citation
Ortega, M. (2025). Northern Illinois University’s Child Development and Family Center “Diversity Bookshelf” Audit
