| All students, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQ), need quality library books which reflect their experiences. This mixed-method research project examines whether public high school library professionals are self-censoring their library collections when it comes to materials with LGBTQ themes. Quantitative data were collected from 120 Ohio public high school libraries, while 12 school librarians were interviewed. The study found that school libraries tended to have significantly fewer LGBTQ-themed books than titles with other kinds of controversial content, but that certain factors, including schools with large number of students; schools with a racially diverse student body; schools located in liberal-leaning communities; and schools that employ certified librarians, are present in schools with more inclusive LGBTQ collections. Qualitative findings supported the quantitative analyses and stressed the importance of a supportive community and administration when developing a quality, inclusive library collection. |
