Issues of gender and sexuality in Libraries and Museums - Find a freedom of information request

Issues of gender and sexuality in the authority area, particularly with regard to libraries and museums;

1. If applicable, can you please detail what work has been undertaken to address issues of inclusion, gender, sexuality, and LGBTQIA+ issues generally in council museums?

For example, new displays on LGBTQIA+, dropping pronouns from displays 

2. Essentially same as for Q1, but can you provide information on how council libraries have addressed these issues?

For example, have any books been specifically banned or removed from the library, or hidden from public view, perhaps in a restricted area? Please detail these.

3. Has a system of trigger warnings been established for sensitive topics?  If warnings have been added, could you detail which books have received a warning?

4. What is the policy for sourcing books on LGBTQIA+ issues?

5. For the above work to, gender, sexuality, and LGBTQIA+ issues generally, can you please provide information any grants received by the council to pursue this work, or any payments or grants made by the council to pursue this work (for example, charities with expertise in this area)

6. Can you also detail any outside advice of consultation offered or procured for all issues detailed above, i.e, boosting LGBTQIA+ inclusion in libraries and museums

For example, advice given by Stonewall

I can confirm that the information requested is held by Lincolnshire County Council. I have detailed below the information that is being released to you.

1. No specific actions have been taken within museums to address these issues generally, however when planning our exhibitions, we work with such groups as The Creative and Boston Collective who have LGBTIQQ representation. We are always keen that they appeal to a wide audience and that we are fully reflective of our community.

2. No books have been banned, removed from the library or hidden from public view. Libraries do stock promotions and displays to tie in with Pride Month or other relevant national/local campaigns/promotions. Relevant catalogue records are tagged LGBTQIA+ so books with LGBTQIA+ theme or content can be search for and located on the our library catalogue.

3. No we do not use trigger warnings.

4. The policy for sourcing books on LGBQIA+ issues is in line with sourcing all books. We will look at cost effectiveness e.g. we will look at price, issue potential (demand). Content, e.g. accuracy, currency (publication date), existing subject coverage. Physical format ,e.g. binding (suitability for library lending). Equal Opportunities e.g. select material that reflects interests of Gender and Sexual Orientation in the community and books with positive images which present individuals, groups or cultures in a way that illustrates their value, self-esteem and power of self-determination and encourages a sense of self-respect.

5. N/A

6. N/A