Libraries “Coming Out” in Support of LGBTQIA+  Human Rights and Social Justice

Abstract

Purpose

To explore the relationship between LGBTQIA+ ¹

1

LGBTQIA+  =  Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual/Ally, and others not defined within these terms.

human rights and libraries.

Methodology/approach

Framed around the Williams Institute report Public Attitudes toward Homosexuality and Gay Rights across Time and Countries (2014), and incorporating aspects of queer theory, this chapter will explore some of the literature discussing libraries and the LGBTQIA+  community. It will then detail some specific examples of activities libraries are engaging in to support LGBTQIA+  rights.

Findings

Many libraries around the globe appear to be offering special programs and services for LGBTQIA+  persons.

Research limitations/implications

This is not a systematic review of library services to the LGBTQIA+  community. The author relied on freely available information sources.

Originality/value

Highlights some of the excellent work libraries are doing in support of LGBTQIA+  human rights. The role of libraries are constantly changing, this chapter points to the potential for libraries to take a stronger role to enact social justice and support human rights.

Citation

McEachreon, P. (2016), "Libraries “Coming Out” in Support of LGBTQIA+  Human Rights and Social Justice", Perspectives on Libraries as Institutions of Human Rights and Social Justice (Advances in Librarianship, Vol. 41), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 183-208. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0065-283020160000041032