University of Gloucestershire Library Service values knowledge derived from diverse sources, cultures and traditions, and seeks to make all our users feel respected, supported and valued.
In common with all university libraries, the University of Gloucestershire Library describes and classifies our resources to make them easier to find.
When describing resources, we transcribe key information such as titles and names directly from library materials to ensure accuracy and discoverability. This information, directly copied, may contain offensive language or outdated terms.
We classify our resources using the Dewey Decimal system, first published in the 1870s, which aims to organise all of knowledge into 10 broad categories and then subdivide it into more specific topics and subject areas. These categories inevitably reflect a nineteenth century Global North worldview, although they undergo continuous revision to keep pace with developments in knowledge.
In addition, we use standardised subject headings to describe and classify our resources.
We are committed to having inclusive, anti-racist, non-derogatory subject headings that accurately describe our holdings. However, there is growing recognition that some of the language used for subject headings in library catalogues is outdated or harmful, perpetuating bias and discrimination. We use Library of Congress (LOC) Subject Headings to enable standardised searching and access across our holdings. LOC Subject Headings changes must go through a lengthy extensive review, editorial and approval process and sometimes they can only be changed by legislative action. As a result, some of these headings continue to use outdated language.
We are dedicated to finding ways to mitigate use of harmful and offensive language in subject headings in our catalogue, including reviewing and correcting existing records and implementing better processes going forward. This process is complex and ongoing, but we are committed to this effort.
We invite you to contact us if you have encountered language you find to be hurtful, harmful or offensive and welcome suggestions for changes to existing subject headings in our library catalogue. If you would like to suggest a change, please email us at [email protected] and we will endeavour to respond promptly.
We will update this statement as required to reflect our evolving understanding of the issue and adjustments we make to our processes. This statement acknowledges the efforts of and draws on similar statements published by many other libraries and archives tackling bias and harmful language in their descriptive records.
Last updated June 2025