One of the most widespread and often alarming trends in libraries is a decrease in funding, affecting both staffing and programming decisions. As budgets are inevitably cut, libraries are increasingly being staffed with paraprofessionals. These paraprofessionals represent an array of backgrounds and areas of expertise, undergoing rigorous training before working at public service desks. Work cultures vary, but by and large, the view of paraprofessionals has shifted toward greater inclusion within the library profession exemplified through the creation of support groups including the Council on Library/Media Technicians (COLT) and the ALA Library Support Staff Interests Round Table (LISSIRT). 

Despite possible bureaucratic or time limitations, paraprofessionals can be integral to driving change and initiating important conversations about inclusivity and multiculturalism in the library field. In this post, Sheila Garcia relates her own experience