An Exploratory Case Study of Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Inclusion at a Metropolitan Library in the Southeastern U.S.

Abstract

This article examines the existing diversity and inclusion responses to transgender and gender nonconforming patrons at a large, metropolitan public library in the southeastern U.S. Research shows that transgender and gender nonconforming individuals face unique challenges when navigating libraries. These challenges include inadequate collections, microaggressions from reference staff, a lack of gender-neutral bathrooms, and circulation policies preventing remote name changes. To compensate for these difficulties and increase accessibility for transgender and gender nonconforming patrons, libraries should incorporate diversity and inclusion initiatives into their functions. The author evaluated current collections, programs, services, policies, and resources for inclusivity, equity, and accessibility and created a strategic diversity action plan for the institution. The strategic diversity action plan identified six steps the library should take to foster inclusion and increase accessibility for its transgender and gender nonconforming patrons. These six steps include: 1) create an official, transgender-friendly bathroom policy; 2) develop a diversity and inclusion statement that includes gender identity in its language; 3) invest in staff training and continuing education about gender, sexuality, and transgender issues and service needs; 4) conduct a needs assessment of the transgender and gender nonconforming community; 5) establish programming based on the needs and wants expressed by the transgender and gender nonconforming community; and 6) implement a remote name-change or preferred name-change process.