“Libraries are for everyone” is a movement that started in early 2017, though its roots have been seen across libraries for generations upon generations. This motto has started taking on a new meaning and approach through more current times, as the support for libraries has been threatened by governmental forces.
For this motto to be true and present in our communities, we have to make every effort to address the needs of every patron that we serve. How can we, as library professionals who are often on the front line for help to the public, make sure that we are addressing all the needs in our community? Libraries are really great about keeping the status quo for most people, but what about the people who are a little bit different? Representation for marginalized people matters.
In this poster project, I have studied ways to connect to patrons who are hard-of-hearing, drug-addicted patrons, or patrons that need the help with finding food, daycare, work. Additionally, what are ways we can reach out to patrons in a nonconventional way? Multnomah County, Oregon has started Reader’s Advisory, based on patron’s tattoos, which was wildly popular. This is a great way to bring fun and enjoyment to patrons who may have been overlooked.
These are some of the ways we can create a more inclusive environment for patrons and make sure each and every person is connected at the library within their community. It’s our duty and an honor to think of everyone and do everything we can to serve where we can.