I'm Interested in LGBTQ+

Representing a broadening array of identities - in both our collections, services, and programs and in our work as professionals - is an essential part of our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. 

Interested in other topics? Check out the conference scheduler and use the drop down "Subject" search field or visit the interests pages to see other topics. 

Saturday

GLBTRT Executive Board Meeting 
Saturday 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
This is one of two biannual in-person business meeting for the GLBTRT comprised of discussion and voting on new directions, feedback for/from ALA leadership, governance changes and financial standings information. Other monthly meetings are conducted via conference call. This is a chance for membership to see the "behind the scenes" work of the Executive Board! Please join us to learn more!

GLBTRT Membership Meeting
Saturday 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Calling all GLBTRT Members (and those interested in learning more about GLBTRT!) -- Come to this open to all session and learn about what went on last year in the round table and help plan out what will go on in the upcoming year! If you are new to ALA or to GLBTRT, this is a great place to start.

Intersectionality and the Experience of LGBTQ+ Folks
Saturday 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
LGBTQ+ folks in the library world face a range of issues that often overlap with other forms of oppression, including gender, race, ethnicity, ability, economic status and education level. Queer library folks with multiple identities often struggle to find acceptance and belonging, feeling excluded and invisible within an already marginalized community. This panel explores intersectionality and the ways that multiple forms of oppression are interconnected. Panelists discuss how each of their lived experiences is different. Attendees will leave with strategies for building respect for difference, creating open and accepting spaces for LGBTQ staff and library users, and increasing acceptance of people with complex identities. 

Sunday

Censorship Beyond Books
Sunday 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
People learn and experience life in a wide variety of ways; not just books. Librarians engage and educate their communities using displays and programs. Just as books can be censored, displays, programs and other non-book resources and services come under fire. While the profession is well-versed in protecting the right to read books, many libraries lack policies and experience in protecting the right to access information and services beyond books, often in the form of content created by their staff. During this hour, three librarians will share their experience of challenges to non-book resources. 

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table 101 (GLBTRT)
Sunday 2:30 PM - 3:30PM
Do you want to learn more about the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table (GLBTRT)? Are you itching to serve on a committee? If so, this information session is perfect for you! Join GLBTRT veterans, executive board members, and committee members to talk about ways to get more involved with the GLBTRT and LGBTQ+ issues in your library and community.

LGBTQ+ Creators and Characters in Kids, Tween, and Teen Comics
Sunday 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
LGBTQIA+ creators and characters are increasingly visible in comics for young readers, from kids through to teens. This panel brings together queer creators and allies to discuss the importance of centering queer stories, working to break stereotypes and the importance of giving all young readers the chance to meet queer characters in comics pages. Creators will talk about their inspirations, new and upcoming works, and how kids comics can create space for even more narratives. 

Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table Social (GLBTRT)
Sunday 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Come join the GLBTRT for fun and refreshments from 6-8pm on Sunday, June 23rd at Green Lantern (1335 Green Ct NW, Washington, DC 20005)! Check out our Facebook for more information! Suggested $5 donation to help cover costs. All are welcome to join us!\

Monday

Beyond Collection Development: Creating Queer-Inclusive Elementary School Library Programming
Monday 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Advocating and planning for queer-inclusive elementary school library programming is frequently limited to collection development efforts. Often, librarians feel constrained or unprepared to implement services and programs that support queer children and their families. In addition, these professionals may face challenges from community members, fellow educators, or school administration when attempting to deliver these services. In this presentation, we will define queer-inclusive programs and services, describe creative initiatives, identify potential barriers, and offer strategies and resources to face these challenges. Participants will engage in collaborative conversations on positioning themselves as advocates for this population of young students. 

GLBTRT Awards Ceremony - featuring Stonewall Book Awards
Monday 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The first and most enduring award for LGBTQ books is the Stonewall Book Awards, sponsored by the American Library Association's Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table. Since Isabel Miller's Patience and Sarah received the first award in 1971, many other books have been honored for exceptional merit relating to the gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender experience. Come and hear from this year's winners. High attendance event, so please come early!