As efforts to limit books discussing gender identity and sexual orientation gain momentum nationwide, LGBTQ+ librarians face significant challenges. They find themselves leading a cultural battle over the accessibility of these books to young readers despite their crucial role in providing information access and supporting diverse communities.
Groups like Moms for Liberty have spearheaded these campaigns, arguing that such books are unsuitable for children. Such efforts have led to new laws in states like Idaho and Louisiana aimed at limiting access to books considered harmful to minors.
The consequences of these censorship initiatives extend beyond the books themselves, impacting the librarians responsible for selecting and offering access to them. June Meissner, a transgender librarian in Boise, Idaho, recently faced a terrifying situation when a patron physically attacked her upon discovering her identity. This incident highlights the personal threats LGBTQ+ librarians face, as they are targeted for who they are as well as the literature they provide.
Meissner's experience is not isolated. Across the nation, LGBTQ+ librarians report experiencing more antagonism and prejudice at work. Many experience persistent misgendering, in which their gender identification is not acknowledged, and verbal abuse from library clients who are against the inclusion of LGBTQ+ literature in the collection.
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The School Library Journal survey from May 2023 showed that school librarians deal with many difficulties regarding harassment and book censorship involving library goods. According to replies from 729 school librarians in the United States, 24% said they had experienced harassment, mainly connected to materials or exhibits in their library. High school librarians reported harassment occurrences at an even higher incidence (30%).
Parents were shown to be the primary harassers, followed by formal organizations. The types of harassment were great, from harsh remarks and charges of endorsing improper content to grave threats and physical assault. Using disparaging terms like "peddler of pornography," getting threats directly, and experiencing cyberbullying on social media sites like X (formerly Twitter) and neighborhood pages were a few examples.
The American Library Association (ALA), a leading advocate for intellectual freedom and access to information, has documented a significant increase in challenges to books addressing LGBTQ+ themes. In a recent ALA report, 4,349 book bans were documented across 23 states and 52 public school districts from July to December 2023. This six-month period saw more book bans than the 2022-2023 school year.
According to the ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom, approximately 38% of book challenges initiated by Moms for Liberty have LGBTQ+ themes. Co-founder Tiffany Justice clarified that the organization targets books that are objectionable due to their perceived sexual content rather than their exploration of LGBTQ+ issues.
LGBTQ+ librarians are dedicated to serving different populations and ensuring fair access to information despite these obstacles. They continue to push for the inclusion of LGBTQ+ literature in library collections, stressing the value of exposure to and instruction for young readers.
These librarians navigate challenging terrain to guarantee that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can access books that reflect their experiences and identities. As Pride Month progresses, they act as beacons of activism and resiliency. The continuous fight for LGBTQ+ rights in libraries emphasizes the continued need for discussion, instruction, and assistance for various voices in literature and other media.
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