Diversity Evaluation and Vendor Communication: The Effect on a Collection

Abstract

Recent events and our effort to embody UNT Health Science Center’s code of culture have necessitated the evaluation of policies and collections in regards to diversity, equity, and inclusion. In our evaluation of resources, we found that few electronic resources provided medical quality images on multiple skin tones. The inclusion of culturally inclusive images, especially those dermatologic in nature, is imperative for the future education of doctors who will treat patients of diverse backgrounds. Recognizing bias and a lack of relevant materials in our collection, UNTHSC drafted documentation which we shared with our vendors explaining our decision to immediately use DEI as a purchasing impact factor. This presentation will discuss the response and impact of this letter on our collection and evaluation processes to allow the university to better educate our students as medical professions who will treat a diverse community.