The Diversity and User Experience Team provides broad support and leadership on user experience, informed by our dedication to DEI and anti-racist principles, broad accessibility of services and resources, and community building and sharing. The DUX Team creates, supports, and administers standing groups and projects that:

Advocate for the user experience and accessibility in development and application of software, tools and other resources in libraries, including discovery platforms and reference services, through:

• Developing best practices for user testing, including usability and accessibility testing
• Coordinating with individuals engaged directly in user testing
• Coordinating with the Systems Team, Alliance staff, and vendors regarding development of discovery platforms
• Providing training and documentation for public services and instruction staff focused on accessibility practices, search and discovery, and user experience topics

Promote DEI culture and climate across our membership in both our internal structure and workforce, and our public facing services and resources by:

• Engaging with member institutions to determine training needs, existing strengths, and local priorities
• Researching and sharing best practices and useful resources
• Providing training and documentation
• Monitoring and assessing progress toward DEI priorities across our organization and membership

Respond to the needs and interests of member libraries and their staff through:

• Monthly open calls designed to facilitate communication and community building through discussions, trainings, and information sharing
• Open lines of communication and opportunities for feedback and participation
• Panel and stand-alone training sessions that address emerging issues and priorities
• Maintained awareness of concerns and impacts in our communities of practice

For transparency, beginning in July of 2021, the DUX Team meeting agendas and notes are available on Google Drive. If you see something that you’d like more information about, please contact us.