Public libraries have the opportunity to create equity of access, and meet the needs of LGBTQ+ customers, and allies. A key entry point to inclusion is through collection development, and readers’ advisory.
In 2016, Library Bound Inc. (LBI) developed LGBTQ+ automatic release programs (ARPs) that allow for continuous collection development with LBI selection specialists in Adult, YA, Juvenile, Print, and DVD, Fiction and Non-Fiction. Learn about Haliburton County Public Library’s use of these ARPs and the unique logistics they’ve undertaken that allow LGBTQ+ communities to easily and discreetly discover titles.
Equally, materials and programs promoting these items highlight the library as a safe space, and draw connections to organizations outside the library. Learn how Burlington and Haliburton County Public Libraries have been able to expand their collections, increase circulation, and utilize readers’ advisory to further community connections, promoting the library as a safe space that is truly open to all.
Outcomes:
– Participants will learn how to promote LGBTQ+ collections in an inclusive manner that allows for discreet discovery
– Participants will learn about sourcing LGBTQ+ books and DVDs, and LGBTQ+ readers’ advisory
– Participants will learn about using collection development, and readers’ advisory as an entry point to building connections with LGBTQ+ customers, and allies
