Bridge Building, Intersectionality and Inclusion

Individual Paper/Presentation

Do Libraries Save Lives?

Primary Author(s)

• 

  Rachel Wexelbaum, MLIS

  Collection Management Librarian/Associate Professor
  St Cloud State University

"The library saved my life" is a statement appearing in published narratives and interviews with LGBTQ+ individuals over several generations, including LGBTQ+ people of color.. This presentation will investigate whether or not people from marginalized communities still perceive the library as a "life saving" safe space, and what policies, procedures, and practices may actually keep our libraries from being safe spaces for those who need them most. The presentation will include recommendations for space planning, security, reference and instruction, collections, programming, and collaboration with community organizations and support services.

 

Learning Objectives:

• Upon completion, participants will be able to define "safe space" and its context within libraries.
• Upon completion, participants will be able to describe the role that libraries play within the lives of the marginalized.
• Upon completion, participants will be able to identify what they are doing well and what may need improvement in making their library a welcoming space for everyone.