Consulting Services for Public Library Equity Assessment and Community Engagement

The Chicago Public Library system is seeking consulting services to conduct a comprehensive equity assessment and facilitate community engagement across all library locations. The selected consultant will be responsible for developing an Equity Assessment strategy and roadmap that aligns with the CPL's 2020–2024 Strategic Plan, while also drawing from relevant city and community-based equity initiatives.

The scope includes designing and developing assessment tools such as interview guides, focus group guides, surveys, and data models. These resources will support the implementation of the Equity Assessment and can be shared with administrators and practitioners in public librarianship.

The consultant will create step-by-step job aids for the successful rollout of the strategy and tools, manage and analyze data collected from all 81 CPL locations, and synthesize the findings. A comprehensive summary of the assessment, including recommendations for advancing equity and incorporating community engagement outcomes, will be delivered for CPL's review and consideration.