Perceptions of Discriminatory Practices and Attitudes: A Survey of African American Librarians

Abstract

The perceptions of African American librarians regarding discriminatory practices and attitudes in the workplace and how they influence job satisfaction were the focus of this study. A descriptive survey, including a questionnaire, was used to observe both personal and observed experience of racial discrimination within the profession. Practicing librarians were surveyed for their observations of the situation as it stands today, as well as for their ideas and opinions on issues facing the African American librarian in the future. This study focused on relationships with supervisors, patrons, coworkers, and management.