Between shelves and closets: the LGBTQIAP+ community as a public policy in libraries in Recife
Public libraries; LGBTQIAP+ community; public policy; cultural mediation
This research aims to discuss the public library as a cultural mediation space that is conducive to the formulation and implementation of cultural public policies aimed at the LGBTQIAP+ community. Methodologically characterized as exploratory, with bibliographical and documental procedures, its specific objectives are: a) to approximate gender discussions with Library Science and Information Science; b) to discuss the public library in Brazil as a space of cultural mediation as to promote diversity; c) to investigate the need for public policies related to the LGBTQIAP+ community within Recife’s public libraries; d) to identify librarians’ perceptions within Recife’s public libraries on a public policy proposal to deal with questions related to gender and sexuality inside those spaces. In order to achieve these goals, we underwent interviews with librarians across 5 libraries throughout the city of Recife. The research notes the importance for the public library, supported by cultural public policies, to deal with gender and sexuality matters through actions of cultural mediation aimed at constructing a society that’s more receptive to the LGBTQIAP+ community.