2019 Pacific Northwest Library Association Conference

This session provides introductory information regarding the transgender experience and related issues; serving public library users who are transgender or non-binary; and topics related to library staff who are transgender or non-binary.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn vocabulary/terminology used by this community. This knowledge will help facilitate positive interactions with library users and staff members who are transgender or non-binary. This includes information about the importance of using someone's affirmed name and pronouns.

Attendees will learn about areas of library services where transgender library users may experience challenges, such as signing up for library cards. The presenter will also discuss areas where they may be better served, including collections and programming, as well as about outreach opportunities to this community.

Information will also be provided regarding the experiences of transgender library staff, how their identity influences their experiences within the library, and how to create and foster a more inclusive workplace.

The program will conclude with a brief question and answer session.

1. Improve understanding of transgender people and issues; dispel myths and misconceptions.
2. Build a vocabulary that respects transgender library users and/or staff and increase comfort level when interacting with transgender people in the library or community.
3. Draw attention to areas of library services that can be improved for transgender library users.