Our collection of antiracist social justice books

Books That Matter is a print collection of more than 100 titles which support our commitment to social justice and antiracism. Chosen by staff and students, the collection is located on the second floor in Main Library on a "working" bookshelf. Books are rotated and cover many different identities, histories, and genres ranging from autobiographies to comic books. Stop by to browse and/or borrow.

Books That Matter categories

• African American
• Asia
• Borderlands
• Environmental Awareness
• Indigenous Peoples
• Latinx
• LGBTQ+
• Social Issues and Policies

Borderlands book spotlight: 'Not A Nation of Immigrants'

By Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz

Most Americans, regardless of political affiliation, will proudly say we are a nation of immigrants. "Not a Nation of Immigrants," author and historian Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz asserts the ideology of being founded by immigrants is "harmful and dishonest and serves to diminish and mask the U.S. history of settler colonization, genocide, white supremacy, slavery, and structural inequality – all of which we are still struggling with today."  

Related coverage

New book collection highlights social justice and antiracism (5/25/22)

Our commitment to diversity & inclusivity

Diversity is one our five core values, and we're proud to be part of the campus-wide diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. 

In 2016, we formed a University Libraries Diversity, Social Justice & Equity Council (DSJEC) charged with developing a sustainable and holistic approach to advancing diversity and inclusion for the Libraries through internal programming and assessment. DSJEC also provides advisement to leadership, and campus and community outreach. Our commitment to diversity and inclusivity includes cross-promoting DEI campus events – sponsored by and coordinated by – many different colleges, departments, groups, and DEI committees.