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University of the Arts London

Decolonising the library: a theoretical exploration

Abstract

This paper explores some theoretical approaches that might inform the call to decolonise the library. It explores theories of coloniality and decoloniality and related concepts including epistemic totality, Eurocentrism and pluriversity. It then discusses how these theories have informed knowledge production, but also how they can inform decolonising practices in the academic library.

Keywords

Decolonisation, coloniality, knowledge, libraries

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Author Biography

Jess Crilly

Jess Crilly is Associate Director, Content & Discovery, Library Services, University of the Arts London.


References

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