Symposia influencing LIS curriculum and society

This study examines the impact of Heritage Month symposia hosted by the School of Information at San José State University since 2021 on the library and information science (LIS) curriculum and society and through thematic analysis of transcripts from 21 events, the research team, comprising two LIS faculty and two graduate assistants, identified common themes and differences across various heritage celebrations, including AANHPI, Black/African American, Disability, Hispanic, LGBTQ+, Deaf, and Native American/Alaskan Native communities. The findings highlight the importance of identity, representation, and cultural heritage in LIS, emphasizing the need for proactive diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The study underscores the necessity for structural changes within the LIS field to support underrepresented groups and foster a more inclusive profession. This research provides a foundation for future efforts to diversify LIS beyond the classroom and into broader societal contexts.