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Joe HeFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-13-2024

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Major

Educational Studies

First Advisor

Britney L. Jones

Second Advisor

Stefanie Jia-Hui Wong

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative content analysis study is to explore the representation of racial and ethnic diversity in the Children’s picture book selection for the Park St branch of the Hartford Public Library, with a particular focus on how such representations reflect, challenge, or reinforce societal norms and biases. Participants in this study included a carefully selected corpus of children's picture books that were available for viewing and borrowing in the main exhibition area of the library. Essential to this research is the definition of "diversity," which, for the purpose of this study, encompasses the inclusion of characters from a wide range of racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as the portrayal of their experiences, cultures, and identities in a manner that is authentic, respectful, and free from stereotypes. Through this study, I aim to contribute to the broader discourse on diversity in children's literature, providing insights that could inform librarians, educators, and publishers in their efforts to create more inclusive and representative book collections for young readers.

Comments

Senior Thesis completed at Trinity College, Hartford CT for the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies.

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