The goal of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ+) Matters Section is to address the information needs of LGBTQ+ community members in relation to library services, programs and collections. 

To raise awareness of specific issues in professional knowledge about LGBTQ+ lives, we create opportunities for discussion about this often invisible user group, and provide tools for librarians and library staff navigating the legal and social environments in which they work. 

We also highlight the essential role of libraries in identity-building and personal empowerment. By ensuring access to collections, safe spaces and inclusive services, we support LGBTQ+ community members as they question, construct and affirm who they are – and who they aspire to be. 

For non-LGBTQ+ people, this Section offers a space to foster dialogue and mutual understanding. By encouraging individual expression and respectful conversation, we support everyone in forming informed opinions, participating in public debate, and recognising the constructive civic role that libraries can play – a role that is increasingly vital in our societies today.

Key Areas of Work
The LGBTQ+ Matters Section supports and encourages libraries to engage with topics such as: 

  • How to serve LGBTQ+ communities: professional attitudes, outreach, privacy and programming. 
  • How to acquire and develop collections of importance to LGBTQ+ people and their allies, including literature, academic works, materials for LGBTQ+ youth and families, and resources that support critical engagement with issues of sexuality and gender identity. 
  • How to raise awareness of these topics within the library profession and build a strong, global network of librarians and library staff working with these and related issues. 

The Section also encourages dialogue and mutual support for librarians and library staff facing questions or challenges related to LGBTQ+ library services. 

Collaboration
We collaborate widely across IFLA to advance shared priorities, and we welcome partnerships with all parts of the organisation. Our work has included joint initiatives with groups focusing on new professionals, Indigenous matters, multicultural library services and equitable access, and we warmly invite any Section or Special Interest Group to connect with us, explore common interests and develop collaborations that help strengthen inclusive library services worldwide. 

Get involved
Our ultimate goal is to raise awareness, offer support and information, and encourage dialogue about LGBTQ+ lives so that all community members and library staff can thrive and be heard. 

To join the LGBTQ+ Matters Section, or for questions, comments or suggestions, please contact the Chair, the Secretary or the Information Coordinator. Contact details can be found on the Standing Committee Members page. 

This unit is part of Professional Division F.