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Outreach is a vital component of serving our LGBTQIA2S+ teens. Access to libraries may be limited or prohibited when programs and services are not promoted to LGBTQIA+ populations or in collaboration with LGBTQIA+ organizations local to your community (ALA, 2019).
Resources for LGBTQ+ teen outreach:
"Rainbow Round Table (RRT) of the American Library Association is committed to serving the information needs of the LGBTQIA+ professional library community, and the LGBTQIA+ information and access needs of individuals at large. We are committed to encouraging and supporting the free and necessary access to all information, as reflected by the missions of the American Library Association" (ALA, 2024).
The RRT has a toolkit for librarians serving the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. The Open to All toolkit was designed to "help library staff better understand" LGBTQIA+ library users, serve their information needs, and manage the many challenges that often arise for the community. The toolkit also features a section of Outreach and Partnerships that librarians may find useful.
Outreach Recommendations
Outreach Recommendations
Set up a meeting with local LGBTQ+ groups or organizations to discuss programming and services to ensure that LGBTQ+ populations are not misrepresented.
Partner with LGBTQ+ friendly businesses to promote local resources.
Talk with LGBTQ+ teens! Connect with local Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) high school clubs or other LGBTQ+ groups.
Use social media to promote programs/services.
If teens aren't in the library, go to them! Visit schools, community centers, or be involved in community events to promote the library's services and programming.
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