Please review the following information prior to casting your vote at the bottom of the page. 

MLA EDI Division Proposal 2024

We would like to propose the creation of an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Division for MLA. Currently, there is an EDI Panel. The purpose of the Panel is to serve the MLA organization in an advisory role, which includes creating or recommending processes and procedures. The EDI Panel does not, however, provide two key elements that we have identified are gaps within MLA around EDI: 

• Regular training on EDI topics. This is not something within the charge of a Panel, and it is outside the capacity of the EDI Panel. But, there is a need for these trainings for Maryland library staff.
• Oversight of relevant Interest Groups. The recent Unit Audit done within MLA established that Divisions will oversee Interest Groups. We continue to hear ideas of adding particular interest groups that do not fit logically in any existing division, but would work under an EDI Division.

In order to create the EDI Division, we need signatures of MLA members equivalent to 10% of the membership body. Please consider filling out this form to approve the creation of the EDI Division. 

Below is the proposed purpose and mission state for an EDI Division for MLA. 

Purpose/Mission Statement for the Division of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) of the Maryland Library Association 

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Division of the Maryland Library Association (MLA) is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that champions the dignity and rights of all individuals. Our mission is to promote, support, and advance equity, diversity, and inclusion within the Maryland library community. We strive to create a culture of belonging by recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives, advocating for underrepresented voices, and ensuring that our libraries are welcoming spaces for everyone. The EDI Division commits to offering resources, programs/ training, and initiatives that empower library staff to engage in meaningful EDI work, thereby contributing to a more just and equitable society. 

Responsibilities of the Officers of the Division 

President 

• Leadership & Vision: Provides strategic direction for the EDI Division in alignment with MLA's overall mission and EDI goals. 
• Representation: Serves as the primary spokesperson for the division at MLA Executive Board meetings and other relevant forums. 
• Meeting Facilitation: Presides over all division meetings and ensures that they are conducted in an orderly and efficient manner. 
• Program Oversight: Ensures the planning and execution of at least one professional development program per year in addition to the Annual Conference program. 
• Advisory Role: Oversees the activities of the division and provides guidance to Interest Groups under the division's purview.

Vice President 

• Support to President: Assists the President in their duties and steps in to fulfill the President's role when they are unavailable. 
• Program Coordination: Takes the lead in coordinating the division's professional development programs, including the Annual Conference program, ensuring alignment with EDI goals. 
• Membership Engagement: Develops strategies for engaging division members, including organizing quarterly meetings and maintaining consistent communication. 
• Special Projects: Manages special initiatives or projects as assigned by the President, particularly those that further the division's EDI mission.

Secretary 

• Record Keeping: Documents the minutes of all division meetings and distributes them to members in a timely manner. 
• Communication: Manages the division's communications, including newsletters, meeting notices, and other relevant correspondence. 
• Membership Database: Maintains an up-to-date list of division members and tracks attendance and participation in meetings and programs. 
• Archiving: Ensures that all division records, including program materials and meeting minutes, are properly archived according to MLA guidelines.

Responsibilities of the Officers of the Interest Group 

The EDI Division may oversee Interest Groups related to the mission of the EDI Division. Whenever an Interest Group is created under the EDI Division, a chair will be appointed with the following duties. 

Chair 

• Leadership & Coordination: Leads the interest group, coordinating all meetings and activities, ensuring they align with both the group's interests and the broader goals of the EDI Division. 
• Program Planning: Oversees the planning and execution of the interest group's Annual Conference program, ensuring it addresses relevant EDI themes. 
• Communication: Acts as the primary point of contact for the interest group, maintaining regular communication with members and the division's leadership. 
• Reporting: Provides regular updates to the division officers on the interest group's activities, challenges, and achievements.

Co-Chair (optional depending on size of the group) 

• Support to Chair: Assists the Chair in all duties, including planning and communication, and stands in for the Chair when necessary. 
• Membership Engagement: Focuses on recruiting and retaining interest group members, ensuring diverse participation and representation. 
• Project Management: Leads specific projects or initiatives within the interest group as delegated by the Chair, particularly those that enhance the group's contribution to EDI efforts.

This structure is designed to ensure that responsibilities are evenly distributed among the officers, allowing for a collaborative approach to leadership while maintaining clear accountability for the division's and interest group's activities.