Augustana College’s Tredway Library Receives National Recognition for Diversity Efforts
Augustana College’s Tredway Library, a cornerstone of academic resources in the Quad Cities region, has been awarded the 2025 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity (LEAD) award by Insight Into Diversity magazine. As a first-time recipient, the library is being honored for its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and diversity, setting a benchmark for other academic institutions.
Award Recognition and Local Impact
The LEAD award underscores a transformative period for Tredway Library as it embarks on a path to foster a more inclusive environment for the Augustana College community. This award will be featured in the March 2025 issue of Insight Into Diversity magazine, spotlighting the library alongside other distinguished recipients. Library Director Stefanie Bluemle expressed her gratitude, stating, “In my time as the library’s director, I have seen the highest dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility from our librarians and staff. We are all committed to student success and well-being, and to making the library a welcoming and inclusive space for the campus community.”
A Comprehensive Diversity Strategy
Tredway Library’s recent achievements stem from a strategic overhaul of its collection development policy, initiated in February 2024. The library has taken decisive steps to diversify its resources by addressing the overrepresentation of white, male, and heterosexual authors. This move follows a pivotal diversity audit conducted in the spring of 2021, revealing disparities in the representation of authors compared to both the current student body and the wider U.S. population.
Director Bluemle elaborated on the library’s progress: “We’ll use the results of the audit, as well as input from students, faculty, and Augustana’s Office of Student Inclusion and Diversity, to continue diversifying the voices and identities represented in our collection.” The library’s initiative represents a significant local impact, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity that can enrich the academic and cultural experience for Quad Cities residents.
Community Engagement and Reaction
The recognition of Tredway Library’s efforts has garnered a positive reaction within the community. Local stakeholders view the award as validation of the library’s mission to reflect the diverse narratives of its constituents. Mary Thompson, a community activist and former Augustana student, noted, “This award highlights the vital work being done to ensure everyone in our community feels seen and heard through the resources we provide.”
The Quad Cities Business Journal (QCBJ), a regional business news hub, reported on the award and emphasized the importance of community involvement, encouraging residents to celebrate such achievements. QCBJ’s role extends beyond reporting, offering platforms for discussions on regional development themes, including those that intersect with diversity and education.
Linking to Past Initiatives and Future Prospects
The decision by Tredway Library to prioritize diversity is not an isolated event. It aligns with an ongoing regional conversation about equity and representation. Previous events, such as diversity panels and inclusive cultural showcases hosted by Augustana College, illustrate a sustained effort to champion diverse voices in the Quad Cities area.
Looking forward, the recognition of Tredway Library’s accomplishments could pave the way for further initiatives across academic and community sectors in the region. By setting an example, Augustana College encourages other institutions to evaluate and enhance their diversity strategies, potentially influencing policy and curricular development.
A Balanced View on Diversity Efforts
While the recognition is largely celebrated, some community members advocate for ongoing vigilance to ensure diversity is genuinely integrated and not merely nominal. In discussions about diversity and equity, it is crucial to maintain a balanced perspective—acknowledging advancements while continuing to pursue meaningful progress.
Dr. James Caldwell, a sociologist at Augustana College, pointed out, “Recognitions, such as the LEAD award, are milestones, not endpoints. They remind us of what can be achieved when we listen, learn, and act.”
Resources and Engagement Opportunities
For residents interested in learning more about Tredway Library’s diversity initiatives or accessing its expanded resources, the library offers various programming and input sessions. These are designed to welcome insights from both students and the wider community, fostering a collaborative approach to continuous improvement.
Augustana College and the Quad Cities Business Journal both encourage community participation in dialogues around diversity and access. Engaging through events, submitting stories, and nominating community leaders are all ways residents can contribute to this ongoing narrative.
In summary, the LEAD award conferred upon Augustana College’s Tredway Library represents a proud moment for the Quad Cities, enhancing its profile as a region committed to diversity and inclusion. Through proactive policies and an open-door approach, the library not only transforms its collection but also enriches the educational landscape for all residents.
