ALA Highlights: Libraries as Safe Spaces for LGBT Students

The best workshop I attended at ALA by far was “Fabulous Havens: Libraries as Safe Spaces for the Needs of LGBT Youth”. This interactive workshop, presented by GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) focused on ways libraries can create safe, respectful and healthy environments for all youth, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. The lecturer was absolutely amazing!

As a group ,attendees discussed times when we spoke up as allies for LBGT teens and young adults in our professional settings and offered one another suggestions for how to make LBGT materials more accessible for this population without being inflammatory or making them recipients of unwanted attention.

One of my fellow young librarians shared that she often assigns characters contrary voices during story time in the public library. She said that when the character is given a gender neutral name but the activity of the plot is masculine she'll give them a more feminine voice and vice versa. She also told the group that sometimes she changes stories to include same-sex partnerships. We laughed, exchanged Hi-5's and applauded her.

We watched videos featuring real youth discussing their triumphs, trials, and disappointments with authority figures in places like school and libraries where their safety is supposed to be ensured.  GLSEN ended the session by passing out “Safe Space” kits which feature stickers, signage, brochures and guides to being allies for LBGT teens.

 This was my favorite session because it is where I felt the most warmth and camaraderie amongst librarians. I hope the libraries I work in will be receptive to using the Safe Space Kit and creating a healthy environment for diversity in its various expressions.