Investigating the Library Experiences of Black Undergraduate Students

This program highlights the investigation of the library experiences of Black undergraduate students at Penn State University to improve services and spaces. It examines students’ use of the physical space and their perceptions of the library’s role in their overall experience on campus. Black students make up just four percent of the undergraduate student population at University Park and past research has shown that minoritized students often experience racial hostility at predominantly white institutions (PWI) , with the library being one of many campus locations where students of color may feel uncomfortable. Existing literature on the experiences of Black students in academic libraries at predominately white institutions has focused primarily on the frequency of visits and types of services used (Whitmire 1999, 2003, 2006; Elteto et al., 2008). Little in the literature ties Black students’ academic library experiences to the broader experiences of Black students at a PWI, which is often explored through the lens of Critical Race Theory (CRT).
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 undergraduate students who identify as Black/African American. The students were asked about their experiences with the library space, services, and personnel, and how these experiences have affected their perception of the University Libraries. This program will outline the interview recruitment process, the interview process, and recommendations from the students and researchers to make Pattee/Paterno Library at Penn State a more inclusive environment for Black undergraduates. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the presentation.