Finding The “B” in LGBTQ+: Collections and Practices that Support the Bisexual and Pansexual Communities

• Published in: LGBTQ+ Librarianship in the 21st Century: Emerging Directions of Advocacy and Community Engagement in Diverse Information Environments Vol. 45; pp. 143 - 165
• Main Authors: Brown, Melinda F, Lilton, Deborah L
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Emerald Publishing Limited 01.05.2019
• Subjects: Library & information science; Bisexual; inclusion; pansexual; LGBTQ; library collections; community outreach
• ISBN: 1787564746; 9781787564749
• ISSN: 0065-2830; 2162-7932
• DOI: 10.1108/S0065-283020190000045013

Abstract This chapter focuses on ways libraries can ensure the services and collections they provide do not exclude bisexual people and indulge in the “bi erasure” that is otherwise so prevalent in society. The authors share best practices for public, academic, and school libraries to add bisexual/pansexual titles to their collections, as well as provide programmatic tips that include the larger bisexual/pansexual community. Most importantly, the authors highlight community partners, advocacy organizations, or non-profits that can serve as potential collaborators as librarians brainstorm programming for bisexual/pansexual patrons. This chapter also contains staff training guidelines and resources for creating a more welcoming environment for bisexual/pansexual patrons. The chapter concludes with a list of resources that will help librarians make more inclusive collections’ decisions and resource guides. It’s purpose is to help libraries better serve bisexual/pansexual patrons who are undoubtedly already library users.