The Prince George Public Library has completed a project updating terminology used in its catalogue records describing books written on topics related to Indigenous people.
The library has replaced culturally inappropriate and outdated subject headings with terms that are more accurate and culturally appropriate.
For example, they’ve changed “Indians of North America” to “Indigenous People — North America.”
“We are very proud to announce the completion of this project, a step forward in updating our cataloguing practices to ensure the language used is more respectful and inclusive,” said Library Director Paul Burry.
“The work performed by the members of our Collection and Technology Team allows us to better represent the knowledge and experiences of Indigenous peoples, while supporting our mission to make the library as welcoming as possible to everyone in our community.”
The project represents a significant milestone in PGPL’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and the important role of language in seeking to create an inclusive and welcoming library experience.
Moving forward, the library will ensure all new materials added to their collection will undergo careful review to ensure they adhere to the updated subject headings, and reflect the library’s commitment to respectful representation.