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NorQuest College Library recognizes that our catalogue and resource descriptions contain language that reflects the biases, norms, and perspectives of the time in which they were created.

For resources about persons and groups, this language is often particularly outdated and harmful. These descriptions also incorporate controlled vocabularies, such as the Library of Congress Subject Headings, which include some headings (e.g., Indians of North America), that are offensive or inappropriate. We use international standards for description, but support and actively participate in efforts to update and change these practices as we strive for descriptions that are inclusive, respectful, and do not cause harm.

We acknowledge the critical importance of community consultation in these efforts, and as residents on Treaty 6 territory and Fort Edmonton Métis District (9) we commit to working together with our local communities to make these changes.

We pledge to amplify the voices of BIPOC and other groups of people that have been marginalized by the dominant narratives. These anti-racist efforts will be present in:

• Our collection processes as we source more BIPOC authors and catalogue them using a holistic lens;
• Our instructional practices guided by the Skills of Distinction, Circle of Courage, and Wahkôhtowin, among other sources; and
• Our policy decisions as we create spaces and services in our library that will approach the needs of our communities through collaboration and learning.

We are committed to critically reflecting on our actions in order to transform the colonial systems we operate within, and we acknowledge the journey towards social justice will be ongoing and imperfect.

Reconsideration Requests and Challenges to Intellectual Freedom

The library adheres to the Canadian Federation of Library Association’s (CFLA) statement on Intellectual Freedom. That statement is available through the CFLA’s website. This space is dedicated to the transparent reporting of all challenges to the legitimacy of library material; choice of library content; nature of library events or guests; content or placement of library displays. NorQuest College Library is committed to fairness and transparency regarding requests to reconsider library materials or events. There are no challenges to report at this time.

Intellectual Freedom and Libraries Procedure

Library Statement on Confidentiality

NorQuest Library mission

As subject matter experts and partners, we work with students, faculty, and staff across the college to achieve a common goal: learner success.

NorQuest Library values

• High quality teaching and service;
• Meeting all learners 'where they are at';
• Continuous learning and improvement;
• Collaboration, consultation, and sharing of expertise;
• Open and equitable information access
• Innovation, discovery, and creativity; and
• Community: safety, respect, inclusion, and accessibility in our physical and digital spaces.

NorQuest Library vision

The library is an essential partner on the path to discovery, transformation, and lifelong learning.

• No food is permitted in the Learner Centre. Drinks with lids are allowed. No food or drinks are allowed near the computers.
• Do not leave personal belongings. unattended. You are responsible for your belongings at all times. Learner Centre staff are not responsible for belongings left unattended.
• Headphones must be used with audio devices or computers. 
• Unauthorized canvassing, proselytizing/recruitment, soliciting, or peddling is not permitted on college property.
• Be aware of the guidelines of the Learner Centre Community Agreement, written in collaboration with students. The values outlined in this agreement include being respectful of other learners and staff, inclusive to everyone's needs (like the desire to have a quiet study and working space), and to ensure that everyone can feel safe in the space.
• NorQuest staff who wish to host an event within the Learner Centre space must read the Learner Centre Event Guidelines and complete the booking form.

Study Areas - see the Learner Centre Floor Map

1. Computers– No food or drink permitted, Low Talking, One person per computer
2. Quiet Study – No talking, phones set to silent mode.
3. Study Carrels – Low/conversational talking is permitted.
4. Study Tables – Working with a group is permitted, but be aware of your volume level.

Please be courteous when booking student study rooms - don't monopolize the room and cancel if you no longer need your booking. Cancellation links are included with booking email confirmations.

• Rooms are for student use only. Staff and faculty should use their designated spaces (example: floor 7 and 8 in CELT).
• Bookings are available up to 7 days in advance.
• Individuals or groups may not book more than 3 hours per day.
• Rooms are considered free 15 minutes after the beginning of the booked timeslot if no group member has arrived to claim the room.
• Rooms are available first come, first served when not reserved.
• Working with a group is permitted in the student meeting rooms but be aware of your volume level - the rooms are not soundproof.
• Study rooms are available during open hours of service.
• Do not leave your belongings inside a room as they are unsupervised. 
• Library Staff reserve the right to cancel room bookings.