“They Kind of Rely on the Library”: School Librarians Serving LGBT Students

to Dr. Shannon M. Oltmann, assistant professor in the School of Library & Information Science, within the College of Communication & Information at the University of Kentucky

About

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examines school librarians’ perspectives on collecting LGBT materials. Based on qualitative interviews with thirty-one school librarians, this project found generally strong support for collecting LGBT materials. School librarians discussed serving their communities, having resources for all students, and meeting the needs of diverse students. In addition, they shared several ways that school libraries can counter bullying: creating a bully-free zone in the library, collecting LGBT and anti-bullying materials, collaborating with guidance counselors and teachers, suggesting particular books for certain students, being a supporter of students, and positioning the school library as a safe space.

Awards Won

Title Year
Diversity Research Grant

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The Office for Diversity, Literacy, and Outreach Services sponsors this grant program which began in 2002 to address critical gaps in the knowledge of equity, diversity, and inclusion issues within library and information science.

 2014 - Winner(s)