4 tips for building a diverse and inclusive library for children

Children often benefit from reading a diverse range of books as this helps them to develop empathy and respect. Teaching children to have cultural awareness from a young age is important as it helps to breakdown stereotypes and install acceptance, compassion and kindness.

Diversity in children’s literature is also important so children from underrepresented backgrounds can relate to the characters. Because of this, reading about characters from similar cultural backgrounds helps give children more confidence and a sense of belonging.

Let’s explore 4 ways to build a diverse library of books.

1. Include as many unique perspectives as possible

It’s important to be inclusive of many life experiences when you build your library. The best way to do this is to look for books written by authors from various backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures and identities.

Select culturally relevant stories that feature diverse protagonists and storylines and find stories that feature every race and culture.

It’s also important to look for stories that feature diverse characters with disabilities, LGBTQ+ identities, nontraditional family structures and varying socioeconomic backgrounds. For example, featuring a disabled child will help children to identify with and relate to various characters who may be experiencing similar things.

In our 2022 Bookmark Box for Ukraine appeal, we delivered books in Ukrainian and English and the feedback was fantastic: ​“You should have seen the surprise in the children’s eyes when they saw the books in Ukrainian. Absolutely priceless, it made us so happy.” By catering to both languages, children felt a sense of familiarity and belonging as they settled into the UK.

3. Involve children in the selection process

Another great way to build a diverse library is by encouraging children to actively participate in selecting books for the library. By asking a child for the title of their favourite book, or even a general description of stories they’re interested in, you can build a library based on stories they find interesting. This will give a child the opportunity to share what they’re excited to read about and will help them to feel important as you build your library based on their recommendations.

4. Know where to find diverse stories

Knowing where to find diverse stories for your library is essential. These resources can help you grow your diverse library:

Charity shops can be a fantastic resource for finding diverse and inclusive children’s books at affordable prices. By checking in every so often you can find diverse books to stock your bookshelves.

Inclusive books for children has a diverse collection of book recommendations for babies through to children ages 6 – 9. Their accessible website offers a broad range of representation and centres characters with diverse ethnicities, disabilities and family structures. Visit their website to find diverse stories.

Another useful resource is Diverse BookFinder, which features a comprehensive collection of children’s picture books featuring Black and Indigenous people and People of Colour (BIPOC). This could be a great place to start if you’re unsure what to look for.