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LGBTQIA+ Forum

Purpose

In an effort to both better serve, better represent, and be better represented by a diverse group of people, VLA formed the LGBTQIA+ Forum. The purpose of the LGBTQIA+ Forum is to create an atmosphere of understanding and inclusion and to promote programs and services by and for the LGBTQIA+ community.

We, as a forum seek:

  • To invoke positive change toward a society in which the LGBTQIA+ community can participate free of negative stereotypes and as equal members of society.
  • To promote awareness of, educate others about, set a positive example for, and provide support to the LGBTQIA+ community.
  • To promote library services to the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide a forum for the discussion of activities, programs and challenges for librarians, support staff, and other information specialists who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community or as allies to the community.
  • To contribute to the educational awareness of LBGTQIA+ issues and services and collections within the profession and the communities we serve.

Objectives

  1. Sponsor and promote awareness of LGBTQIA+ programs and awards designed to recognize Virginia LGBTQIA+ activists and movers and shakers as well as Virginia authors writing excellent literature that celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community, including launching awards such as a Virginia Pride Award for best books.
  2. To recognize the achievements of Virginia libraries and librarians which relate to the LGBTQIA+ community or issues.
  3. To provide a support system for LGBTQIA+ library staff and others in Virginia to provide excellent programs and services to the LGBTQIA+ community we serve.
  4. To assist interested Virginia institutions in collection development and management of LGBTQIA+ materials and promote the improved quality, quantity, and accessibility of library materials and service of particular interest or usefulness to people who identify as LGBTQIA+ of all ages using Virginia libraries.
  5. Develop, promote and defend unrestricted access of all Virginia library users to information by or for the LGBTQIA+ community.
  6. Provide opportunities for LGBTQIA+ librarians, archivists, and other information specialists attending VLA conferences to meet and socialize with one another.
  7. To foster an exchange of information about services for the LGBTQIA+ community by means of conference programs, workshops, lectures, tours, publications, a web presence, and additional initiatives.
  8. Work toward eliminating job discrimination against LGBTQIA+ employees of libraries, archives, and information centers, including educating about unconscious bias, stereotyping, and discrimination.
  9. Advocate within the membership and leadership of VLA on behalf of LGBTQIA+ librarians, archivists, other information specialists, and library users.
  10. To work in conjunction with other LGBTQIA+ organizations and sub-groups to understand and to serve the wide variety of needs and interests of our community and to better serve those entrusted to our care.