Libraries as catalysts for unveiling more inclusive data in rural areas

The Califa Group in partnership with the University of Washington Information School will address a data gap in rural communities, in which library workers, policymakers, and community organizers often struggle to find datasets that accurately represent the realities and aspirations of rural communities. This project involves co-creating a training program with rural library workers. The training will detail a process for bringing community stakeholders together to determine gaps in existing public datasets, identifying missing voices, and devising strategies to address these gaps. At the conclusion of this project, one output will be the delivery of a free, on-demand online training course that will equip rural library workers with the skills and tools to facilitate inclusive data practices in rural communities in the production, analysis, and use of data to address local social issues.

Learn more about inclusive data for rural libraries at Califa.org.

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services grant number #RE-256613-OLS-24.