Bosman, E. (2023). The Availability of Spanish Language LGBTQ Nonfiction Books in the United States-Mexico Borderland. Collection Management, 48(3), 257-281. https://doi.org/10.1080/01462679.2023.2172508
This article evaluates the availability of Spanish language LGBTQ+ nonfiction books in libraries near the United States/Mexico border. It found that such items were present in each examined library, although the amount of materials available varied in volume depending on each institution's average budget. This demonstrates an unwavering commitment to their community's needs. Examining their patrons' needs will allow them to continue building up their collection's materials on this topic at a level appropriate for their specific community.
Intersectional materials, such as Spanish language LGBTQ+ nonfiction books, are often considered to be a niche interest rather than a key part of a community's collection needs. Although the importance of any specialized topic varies based on a community's demographics, it is important to conduct research into their interests to better meet their information needs over time. Although budgets can be a potential concern when attempting to purchase such materials for a collection, it is important to note that even small libraries were able to include Spanish language LGBTQ+ nonfiction books in their collections once they were identified as a priority.
It is important for information professionals to identify which "niche" interests their community holds that are not being adequately represented in their current collection. Oftentimes, the very nature of intersectionality will prove that many "niche" topics are inclusive of many community members. As a result, identifying these interests greatly benefits both collection and connection development.
No comments:
Post a Comment