In this chapter we turn to discussing local policies and how to use them to support the actions that need to be taken to make your library more diverse, inclusive and equal. Policies provide a useful framework and can help ensure that everyone understands what is expected of them, but actions are at the heart of making change. Too often we spend far too long in discussion and far too little time in action. So, as you move towards creating policies make sure that they are designed to encourage and facilitate actions.

Throughout this book you will find actions that you as an individual can do to make your workplace a more welcoming, inclusive and diverse place. Although individuals working on improving their workplaces is often at the heart of moving forward in EDI, there is only so much that any one individual can do, and working on your own can lead to burnout.

One way to maximise the effect you have and to avoid burnout is to think about your sphere of influence (Bonfield, 2021). Many of the ideas and tips in this book will give you ideas on how to change your everyday practice and ways of influencing your immediate colleagues or managers. But how can you widen your influence further? A good way of doing this is to do as the ancient Roman Stoics did and consider your sphere of influence, and the spheres of influence of your allies and supporters (Figure 3.1 on the next page).