A5 Bibliography: Serving LGBTQ Youth (Focusing on Teens).
Introduction:
In one of our first reference assignments for this class we were asked to go to a local library and ask a reference librarian a question—face-to-face. I decided to ask the reference librarian at my public library a reader’s advisory question. I asked her if she could recommend good books featuring LGBTQ teens. Her response was disappointing, to say the least. Either she wasn’t prepared with ready resources, or she felt personally uncomfortable with my question because she tried her best to send me away without properly answering my query. I hope that this was not because of any personal bias, but I can only assume that she was ill prepared for such an interview. That’s what inspired me to choose LGBTQ youth library resources as my topic for this assignment—as a list of resources that would prevent other library patrons from being turned away empty-handed.
Experimentally, I have gathered my top, current resources onto a Pinterest board on my personal account with the idea of having a ready go-to reference source for queries pertaining to LGBTQ youth resources. The pins range from librarian resources, in order to help plan programming and build up a collection, resources for youths, whether their need is education-related, health-related, socially-related, or leisure-related (I’ve gathered what I think of as great booklists and subject guides!), to information for parents and allies of LGBTQ youth. Ideally, I would have opened a new Pinterest account dedicated to LGBTQ resources and have a separate board for each of these areas, but this, I hope, is a good start. Please enjoy the experiment!
Here’s the URL: : http://pinterest.com/stormcrowe/an-lgbtq-youth-annotated-bibliography-in-pins-a5/
NOTE: The board is arranged, roughly, in alphabetical order from top to bottom, left to right, but there is no control on how it appears on the page (the pins are all different sizes), so it may be a bit confusing to sort through alphabetically.
The following bibliography is meant to be a companion to the pins, and is alphabetized and organized neatly for your convenience.
American Library Association. (1997-2012). Bibliography for gay teens. Retrieved from
http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/popularresources/teens
Free Resource.
This link will take you to the Bibliography for Gay Teens—an ALA webpage. It isn’t graphic-rich, and this list doesn’t appear to be too current, either, but it is still useful. I included it as a resource because it is an ALA page and it is also a hub for other current and relevant pages, such as the Speaking Out page on Delicious, GLBT Reviews, Over the Rainbow Books, and The Rainbow Project (see right-hand sidebar).
Note—the pin that was made for this link is only accessible through the link in the comments section of the pin.
American Library Association. (2012). Stonewall book awards. Retrieved from
http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/award/
Free Resource.
Stonewall Book Awards. The ALA's Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table names a Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adults Literature Award-winner and honor books every January (presenting the winning authors / editors at the ALA Conference in the summer). Find 2012 winners (and archived years) here: http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/award/honored
Belge, K., Bieschke, M. & Robinson, C. (2011). Queer: The ultimate LGBT guide for teens. San Francisco: Zest Books.
ISBN (paperback): 9780981973340
$14.99
This book is a worthy resource for GLBTQ youth. It discusses being a LGBTQ youth, coming out, encountering and overcoming homophobia, dating, love, and sexual intimacy. The book also features a section on resources for LGBTQ youth.
Books Rekindled. (2012, October 22). A quick LGBTQ resource list. [Web log]. Retrieved from
http://booksrekindled.wordpress.com/2012/10/22/a-quick-ya-lgbtq-resource-list/
Free Resource.
A blog page where LGBT authors, books, reviews, awards and booklists are discussed and links are provided. This is a thorough resource page, and it also appears to be written by a library science student, who only identifies herself as “Julie.” The page is listed as being authored by “Books Rekindled,” so that is how I chose to cite her page.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National HIV/AIDS strategy updates (2012). Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/default.htm
UPDATE: This site was updated on 11/29/2012—the new title is simply “HIV/AIDS.”
Free Resource.
"National HIV/AIDS Strategy Updates" A resource for HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention.” I was hesitant about adding this resource. While I do not believe that LGBTQ youth should be singled out for needing to know about HIV transmission, (all youth--all people, for that matter-- need such education), this page may be a helpful educational resource for young library patrons or concerned parents, so I decided to include it.
Covenant House. (2012). Retrieved from
www.NINELINE.org
Free Resource.
A toll-free helpline aimed at homeless youth—not specifically for LGBTQ youth, but they help all young people, LGBTQ youth, included. Also, they do not exclude people who are not homeless, but will assist any young person in crisis. They speak Spanish and there is also an online chat, though they cannot guarantee confidentiality on the chat line. Their number: 1-800-999-9999.
Fakhrid-Deen, T. & COLAGE (2010). Let’s get this straight: The ultimate handbook for youth with LGBTQ parents. Berkeley: Seal Press.
ISBN: 1580053335
$16.00
This book is a great guide to topics concerning young people with one or more LGBTQ parent. The author’s mother is lesbian, and Fakhrid-Deen writes in an accessible, authentic way that will engage teen readers. This book promotes understanding, tolerance, and self esteem. The book also includes a helpful glossary of what may be unfamiliar terms.
Gay, Lesbian Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table & Social Responsibilities Round Table of the American Library Association. (2012). Rainbow book list—GLBTQ books for children & teens. Retrieved from
http://glbtrt.ala.org/rainbowbooks/
Free Resource.
The main page for the Rainbow Book List. This page offers current information on the Rainbow Project, including up-to-date news on nominations.
The link in the pin description will take you to the Bibliography for Gay Teens—an ALA webpage. It isn’t graphic-rich, and this list doesn’t appear to be too current, either, but it is still useful. I included it as a resource because it is an ALA page and it is also a hub for other current and relevant pages, such as the Speaking Out page on Delicious, GLBT Reviews, Over the Rainbow Books, and The Rainbow Project (see right-hand sidebar). http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/popularresources/teens
Gay, Lesbian Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table & Social Responsibilities Round Table of the American Library Association. (2011). Rainbow lists. Retrieved from
http://glbtrt.ala.org/rainbowbooks/rainbow-books-lists
Free Resource.
A book list for children’s and YA books containing LGBTQ themes from the ALA. These yearly lists are archived starting from 2008 through the current year’s list (a new list is published every January). The page also contains other helpful links, such as a link to the Rainbow List Facebook page.
GLBT National Help Center. (2009). GLBT national youth talkline. Retrieved from http://www.glbtnationalhelpcenter.org/talkline/index.html
Free Resource.
GLBT National Youth Talkline (a division of the GLBT National Help Center). This website (and call center) provides a free, confidential crisis support help line for teens and young adults through age 25. CONTACT INFO: Toll-free 1-800-246-PRIDE (1-800-246-7743) HOURS: Monday through Friday from 1pm to 9pm, PST (Monday through Friday from 4pm to midnight, EST) Saturday from 9am to 2pm, PST (Saturday from noon to 5pm, EST) Email: [email protected]
Goodreads Listopia. (2012). Best YA fiction with GLBTQQI themes / characters. Goodreads, Inc. Retrieved from http://www.goodreads.com/list/show/653.Best_YA_Fiction_with_GLBTQQI_themes_characters
Free Resource.
An LGBTQ YA booklist selected by Goodreads users. It may be a valuable jumping-off point for finding current, popular books for LGBTQ teens (for a reader’s advisory). NOTE: To access the correct webpage through my Pinterest board, please click the link in the pin’s description—the image will only take you to The Perks of Being a Wallflower page on Goodreads, which I used for the graphic, since there was no available graphic for the Listopia page.
GSA Network (2009-2012). Retrieved from
http://www.gsanetwork.org/
Free Resource
The Gay-Straight Alliance Network works to educate and empower teens to form their own GSA in their schools and communities and help fight homophobia and transphobia. It is geared toward setting up GSA in school settings, but it is also possible to set up GSA in libraries or in other areas of the community. This is a great resource for young activists, parents, family members, librarians, PTAs, etc.
Guccini, J. (2002-2012). Your new school library. [Web log]. Retrieved from
http://www.afterellen.com/tags/your-new-school-library
Free Resource.
Jill Guccini writes a blog/book review column introducing and reviewing books featuring LGBTQ youth and strong female characters.
Huegel, K. (2011). GLBTQ: The survival guide for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning teens. Minneapolis: Free Spirit Publishing.
ISBN: 9781575423630
$15.99
A revised and updated version of the helpful guide. This book is a thorough guide and fantastic resource for LGBTQ teens, including sections on religion and culture, health, works and college, sex and sexuality, dating and relationships, as well as an entire chapter on transgendered teens.
It Gets Better Project. (2010-2012). Savage Love, LLC. Retrieved from
http://www.itgetsbetter.org/
Free Resource
This website includes videos and articles that serve to help LGBTQ youth navigate what can be rough waters at school, at home and in the community. The goal of this site is to educate people, promote tolerance, a positive outlook, and above all, let LGBTQ youth know that they are not alone, and that “it gets better.”
Krieger, I. (2011). Helping your transgender teen: A guide for parents. New Haven: Genderwise Press.
ISBN: 9780692012291
$12.95
A book specifically designed to help educate and inform parents of transgendered teens. It encourages parents to support and embrace their transgendered teen and offers advice on how to help them be safe, how to be a nurturing parent, as well as providing sections on male-to-female and female-to-male transitioning (there is also a glossary of terms).
Lo, M. (2011, September 15). I have the numbers! Stats on LGBT young adult books published in the U.S.: Updated 9/15/11. [Web log]. Retrieved from http://www.malindalo.com/2011/09/i-have-numbers-stats-on-lgbt-young-adult-books-published-in-the-u-s/
Free Resource.
This article is a little older, but it provides interesting data on LGBTQ literature that still has relevance now. The page also provides links that access other interesting parts of her website, such as her blog where she discusses other topics in LGBTQ YA literature, the writing craft and publishing industry, and her own sexuality.
Multnomah County Library. (2011, May 18). GLBTQ booklist. Retrieved from http://www.multcolib.org/teens/glbt.html
Free Resource.
Another library booklist featuring LGBTQ-themed fiction for teens. It also has a section on adult books that teens might like, as well as a very limited non-fiction list (there are only two non-fiction books listed, but it’s a good start—my library doesn’t have a page like this!).
Naidoo, J. C. (2012). Rainbow family collections: Selecting and using children’s books with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer content. Santa Barbara: Libraries Unlimited.
ISBN: 1598849603
$50.00
This book focuses on books for younger people (pre-school through tween), but I thought that it was worth including as a resource.
Novelist Plus. Ipswich: EBSCO Publishing. Retrieved November 21, 2012 from
http://www.ebscohost.com/novelist/our-products/novelist-plus
Subscription-based.
NoveList Plus is a great database for a public library to subscribe to because it can assist in the reader’s advisory. NoveList Plus is for all ages, but you can search for children’s or teen books, easily, as well as using limiters to find LGBTQ books. If a patron is looking for a book in a similar vein to one that they had previously enjoyed, this database recommends similarly-themed titles with great accuracy.
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG). (2012). Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, Inc. Retrieved from http://community.pflag.org/Page.aspx?pid=194&srcid=-2
Free Resource.
This non-profit organization exists to help families and other allies support their LGBTQ loved ones and assist others in uniting against intolerance.
Pekoll, K. & West Bend Community Memorial Library. (2009). YA zone: Over the rainbow: Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender fiction and non-fiction. Retrieved from
http://www.west-bendlibrary.org/yaglbtq.htm
Free Resource.
A booklist featuring fiction and non-fiction for LGBTQ youth. A great resource from a dedicated librarian. The site features thumbnail images of books with brief informative blurbs. Unfortunately, it is not more current than 2009.
Point Foundation. (2012). Retrieved from
http://www.pointfoundation.org/
Free Resource
The Point Foundation offers scholarships to LGBTQ teens. The website not only contains scholarship and mentorship information, but also posts events and resources (there is also a blog).
Porter, D. (2012). Queer YA: Fiction for LGBTQ teens. Retrieved from
http://daisyporter.org/queerya/
Free Resource.
This blog features book reviews focusing on LGBTQ YA, by librarian Daisy Porter. There is also a Facebook presence: https://www.facebook.com/pages/QueerYA/180878723313?ref=ts
Rawson, C. H. (2011). Are all lists created equal? Diversity in award-winning and bestselling young adult fiction. The Journal of Research on Libraries and Young Adults. Retrieved from
http://www.yalsa.ala.org/jrlya/2011/06/are-all-lists-created-equal-diversity-in-award-winning-and-bestselling-young-adult-fiction/
Free article (and YALSA publication).
Rawson (2011) discusses the booklists that are typically consulted by librarians when making decisions about collection development and examines the diversity (or lack of) in these award-winning books. I included this article as a resource because the statistical data may provide food for thought for any youth librarian involved in collection development for young readers (there is specific statistical data on book featuring LGBTQ youth).
Teacher Librarian 2.0. (2010, December 20). Resources for building a high school library program that meets the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, or questioning students: Part 1. [Web log]. Retrieved from http://cjpeterso.edublogs.org/2010/12/20/glbtqresources1/
Free Resource.
This is part one of a three-part article on creating a high school library program serving LGBTQ teen and their allies, but may be adapted for public library use. It is a solid resource for librarians.
The Trevor Project. (2010). Retrieved from
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/
Free Resource.
The Trevor Project is a national organization providing free crisis services and suicide prevention for LGBTQ youth. The website also features a blog, as well as a section for parents and educators. Their call line: 866-488-7386. They also have a Facebook presence.
Webber, C. K. (2010). Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning teen literature: A guide to reading interests (Genreflecting advisory series). Santa Barbara: Libraries Unlimited.
ISBN: 1591585066
$45.00
A great resource and genre guide for different forms of literature (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, mystery, graphic novels, and much more) as well as different topics all relating to LGBTQ youth. An essential book for a reader's advisory, or for any library developing a collection for LGBTQ teens.
Wind, L. (2012). I’m here. I’m queer. What the hell do I read? Retrieved from
http://www.leewind.org/
Free Resource.
A blog by Lee Wind M.Ed. featuring a blog on books, politics, events, and other LGBTQ topics. Not only is there a blog, but this site is organized into a detailed subject guide to books for LGBTQ youth from easy readers to YA and graphic novels. This is the perfect resource for a LGBTQ-themed reader’s advisory—and it’s kept current!
Introduction:
In one of our first reference assignments for this class we were asked to go to a local library and ask a reference librarian a question—face-to-face. I decided to ask the reference librarian at my public library a reader’s advisory question. I asked her if she could recommend good books featuring LGBTQ teens. Her response was disappointing, to say the least. Either she wasn’t prepared with ready resources, or she felt personally uncomfortable with my question because she tried her best to send me away without properly answering my query. I hope that this was not because of any personal bias, but I can only assume that she was ill prepared for such an interview. That’s what inspired me to choose LGBTQ youth library resources as my topic for this assignment—as a list of resources that would prevent other library patrons from being turned away empty-handed.
Experimentally, I have gathered my top, current resources onto a Pinterest board on my personal account with the idea of having a ready go-to reference source for queries pertaining to LGBTQ youth resources. The pins range from librarian resources, in order to help plan programming and build up a collection, resources for youths, whether their need is education-related, health-related, socially-related, or leisure-related (I’ve gathered what I think of as great booklists and subject guides!), to information for parents and allies of LGBTQ youth. Ideally, I would have opened a new Pinterest account dedicated to LGBTQ resources and have a separate board for each of these areas, but this, I hope, is a good start. Please enjoy the experiment!
Here’s the URL: : http://pinterest.com/stormcrowe/an-lgbtq-youth-annotated-bibliography-in-pins-a5/
NOTE: The board is arranged, roughly, in alphabetical order from top to bottom, left to right, but there is no control on how it appears on the page (the pins are all different sizes), so it may be a bit confusing to sort through alphabetically.
The following bibliography is meant to be a companion to the pins, and is alphabetized and organized neatly for your convenience.
American Library Association. (1997-2012). Bibliography for gay teens. Retrieved from
http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/popularresources/teens
Free Resource.
This link will take you to the Bibliography for Gay Teens—an ALA webpage. It isn’t graphic-rich, and this list doesn’t appear to be too current, either, but it is still useful. I included it as a resource because it is an ALA page and it is also a hub for other current and relevant pages, such as the Speaking Out page on Delicious, GLBT Reviews, Over the Rainbow Books, and The Rainbow Project (see right-hand sidebar).
Note—the pin that was made for this link is only accessible through the link in the comments section of the pin.
American Library Association. (2012). Stonewall book awards. Retrieved from
http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/award/
Free Resource.
Stonewall Book Awards. The ALA's Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table names a Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adults Literature Award-winner and honor books every January (presenting the winning authors / editors at the ALA Conference in the summer). Find 2012 winners (and archived years) here: http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/award/honored
Belge, K., Bieschke, M. & Robinson, C. (2011). Queer: The ultimate LGBT guide for teens. San Francisco: Zest Books.
ISBN (paperback): 9780981973340
$14.99
This book is a worthy resource for GLBTQ youth. It discusses being a LGBTQ youth, coming out, encountering and overcoming homophobia, dating, love, and sexual intimacy. The book also features a section on resources for LGBTQ youth.
Books Rekindled. (2012, October 22). A quick LGBTQ resource list. [Web log]. Retrieved from
http://booksrekindled.wordpress.com/2012/10/22/a-quick-ya-lgbtq-resource-list/
Free Resource.
A blog page where LGBT authors, books, reviews, awards and booklists are discussed and links are provided. This is a thorough resource page, and it also appears to be written by a library science student, who only identifies herself as “Julie.” The page is listed as being authored by “Books Rekindled,” so that is how I chose to cite her page.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National HIV/AIDS strategy updates (2012). Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/default.htm
UPDATE: This site was updated on 11/29/2012—the new title is simply “HIV/AIDS.”
Free Resource.
"National HIV/AIDS Strategy Updates" A resource for HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention.” I was hesitant about adding this resource. While I do not believe that LGBTQ youth should be singled out for needing to know about HIV transmission, (all youth--all people, for that matter-- need such education), this page may be a helpful educational resource for young library patrons or concerned parents, so I decided to include it.
Covenant House. (2012). Retrieved from
www.NINELINE.org
Free Resource.
A toll-free helpline aimed at homeless youth—not specifically for LGBTQ youth, but they help all young people, LGBTQ youth, included. Also, they do not exclude people who are not homeless, but will assist any young person in crisis. They speak Spanish and there is also an online chat, though they cannot guarantee confidentiality on the chat line. Their number: 1-800-999-9999.
Fakhrid-Deen, T. & COLAGE (2010). Let’s get this straight: The ultimate handbook for youth with LGBTQ parents. Berkeley: Seal Press.
ISBN: 1580053335
$16.00
This book is a great guide to topics concerning young people with one or more LGBTQ parent. The author’s mother is lesbian, and Fakhrid-Deen writes in an accessible, authentic way that will engage teen readers. This book promotes understanding, tolerance, and self esteem. The book also includes a helpful glossary of what may be unfamiliar terms.
Gay, Lesbian Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table & Social Responsibilities Round Table of the American Library Association. (2012). Rainbow book list—GLBTQ books for children & teens. Retrieved from
http://glbtrt.ala.org/rainbowbooks/
Free Resource.
The main page for the Rainbow Book List. This page offers current information on the Rainbow Project, including up-to-date news on nominations.
The link in the pin description will take you to the Bibliography for Gay Teens—an ALA webpage. It isn’t graphic-rich, and this list doesn’t appear to be too current, either, but it is still useful. I included it as a resource because it is an ALA page and it is also a hub for other current and relevant pages, such as the Speaking Out page on Delicious, GLBT Reviews, Over the Rainbow Books, and The Rainbow Project (see right-hand sidebar). http://www.ala.org/glbtrt/popularresources/teens
Gay, Lesbian Bisexual, and Transgender Round Table & Social Responsibilities Round Table of the American Library Association. (2011). Rainbow lists. Retrieved from
http://glbtrt.ala.org/rainbowbooks/rainbow-books-lists
Free Resource.
A book list for children’s and YA books containing LGBTQ themes from the ALA. These yearly lists are archived starting from 2008 through the current year’s list (a new list is published every January). The page also contains other helpful links, such as a link to the Rainbow List Facebook page.
GLBT National Help Center. (2009). GLBT national youth talkline. Retrieved from http://www.glbtnationalhelpcenter.org/talkline/index.html
Free Resource.
GLBT National Youth Talkline (a division of the GLBT National Help Center). This website (and call center) provides a free, confidential crisis support help line for teens and young adults through age 25. CONTACT INFO: Toll-free 1-800-246-PRIDE (1-800-246-7743) HOURS: Monday through Friday from 1pm to 9pm, PST (Monday through Friday from 4pm to midnight, EST) Saturday from 9am to 2pm, PST (Saturday from noon to 5pm, EST) Email: [email protected]
Goodreads Listopia. (2012). Best YA fiction with GLBTQQI themes / characters. Goodreads, Inc. Retrieved from http://www.goodreads.com/list/show/653.Best_YA_Fiction_with_GLBTQQI_themes_characters
Free Resource.
An LGBTQ YA booklist selected by Goodreads users. It may be a valuable jumping-off point for finding current, popular books for LGBTQ teens (for a reader’s advisory). NOTE: To access the correct webpage through my Pinterest board, please click the link in the pin’s description—the image will only take you to The Perks of Being a Wallflower page on Goodreads, which I used for the graphic, since there was no available graphic for the Listopia page.
GSA Network (2009-2012). Retrieved from
http://www.gsanetwork.org/
Free Resource
The Gay-Straight Alliance Network works to educate and empower teens to form their own GSA in their schools and communities and help fight homophobia and transphobia. It is geared toward setting up GSA in school settings, but it is also possible to set up GSA in libraries or in other areas of the community. This is a great resource for young activists, parents, family members, librarians, PTAs, etc.
Guccini, J. (2002-2012). Your new school library. [Web log]. Retrieved from
http://www.afterellen.com/tags/your-new-school-library
Free Resource.
Jill Guccini writes a blog/book review column introducing and reviewing books featuring LGBTQ youth and strong female characters.
Huegel, K. (2011). GLBTQ: The survival guide for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning teens. Minneapolis: Free Spirit Publishing.
ISBN: 9781575423630
$15.99
A revised and updated version of the helpful guide. This book is a thorough guide and fantastic resource for LGBTQ teens, including sections on religion and culture, health, works and college, sex and sexuality, dating and relationships, as well as an entire chapter on transgendered teens.
It Gets Better Project. (2010-2012). Savage Love, LLC. Retrieved from
http://www.itgetsbetter.org/
Free Resource
This website includes videos and articles that serve to help LGBTQ youth navigate what can be rough waters at school, at home and in the community. The goal of this site is to educate people, promote tolerance, a positive outlook, and above all, let LGBTQ youth know that they are not alone, and that “it gets better.”
Krieger, I. (2011). Helping your transgender teen: A guide for parents. New Haven: Genderwise Press.
ISBN: 9780692012291
$12.95
A book specifically designed to help educate and inform parents of transgendered teens. It encourages parents to support and embrace their transgendered teen and offers advice on how to help them be safe, how to be a nurturing parent, as well as providing sections on male-to-female and female-to-male transitioning (there is also a glossary of terms).
Lo, M. (2011, September 15). I have the numbers! Stats on LGBT young adult books published in the U.S.: Updated 9/15/11. [Web log]. Retrieved from http://www.malindalo.com/2011/09/i-have-numbers-stats-on-lgbt-young-adult-books-published-in-the-u-s/
Free Resource.
This article is a little older, but it provides interesting data on LGBTQ literature that still has relevance now. The page also provides links that access other interesting parts of her website, such as her blog where she discusses other topics in LGBTQ YA literature, the writing craft and publishing industry, and her own sexuality.
Multnomah County Library. (2011, May 18). GLBTQ booklist. Retrieved from http://www.multcolib.org/teens/glbt.html
Free Resource.
Another library booklist featuring LGBTQ-themed fiction for teens. It also has a section on adult books that teens might like, as well as a very limited non-fiction list (there are only two non-fiction books listed, but it’s a good start—my library doesn’t have a page like this!).
Naidoo, J. C. (2012). Rainbow family collections: Selecting and using children’s books with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer content. Santa Barbara: Libraries Unlimited.
ISBN: 1598849603
$50.00
This book focuses on books for younger people (pre-school through tween), but I thought that it was worth including as a resource.
Novelist Plus. Ipswich: EBSCO Publishing. Retrieved November 21, 2012 from
http://www.ebscohost.com/novelist/our-products/novelist-plus
Subscription-based.
NoveList Plus is a great database for a public library to subscribe to because it can assist in the reader’s advisory. NoveList Plus is for all ages, but you can search for children’s or teen books, easily, as well as using limiters to find LGBTQ books. If a patron is looking for a book in a similar vein to one that they had previously enjoyed, this database recommends similarly-themed titles with great accuracy.
Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG). (2012). Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, Inc. Retrieved from http://community.pflag.org/Page.aspx?pid=194&srcid=-2
Free Resource.
This non-profit organization exists to help families and other allies support their LGBTQ loved ones and assist others in uniting against intolerance.
Pekoll, K. & West Bend Community Memorial Library. (2009). YA zone: Over the rainbow: Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender fiction and non-fiction. Retrieved from
http://www.west-bendlibrary.org/yaglbtq.htm
Free Resource.
A booklist featuring fiction and non-fiction for LGBTQ youth. A great resource from a dedicated librarian. The site features thumbnail images of books with brief informative blurbs. Unfortunately, it is not more current than 2009.
Point Foundation. (2012). Retrieved from
http://www.pointfoundation.org/
Free Resource
The Point Foundation offers scholarships to LGBTQ teens. The website not only contains scholarship and mentorship information, but also posts events and resources (there is also a blog).
Porter, D. (2012). Queer YA: Fiction for LGBTQ teens. Retrieved from
http://daisyporter.org/queerya/
Free Resource.
This blog features book reviews focusing on LGBTQ YA, by librarian Daisy Porter. There is also a Facebook presence: https://www.facebook.com/pages/QueerYA/180878723313?ref=ts
Rawson, C. H. (2011). Are all lists created equal? Diversity in award-winning and bestselling young adult fiction. The Journal of Research on Libraries and Young Adults. Retrieved from
http://www.yalsa.ala.org/jrlya/2011/06/are-all-lists-created-equal-diversity-in-award-winning-and-bestselling-young-adult-fiction/
Free article (and YALSA publication).
Rawson (2011) discusses the booklists that are typically consulted by librarians when making decisions about collection development and examines the diversity (or lack of) in these award-winning books. I included this article as a resource because the statistical data may provide food for thought for any youth librarian involved in collection development for young readers (there is specific statistical data on book featuring LGBTQ youth).
Teacher Librarian 2.0. (2010, December 20). Resources for building a high school library program that meets the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, or questioning students: Part 1. [Web log]. Retrieved from http://cjpeterso.edublogs.org/2010/12/20/glbtqresources1/
Free Resource.
This is part one of a three-part article on creating a high school library program serving LGBTQ teen and their allies, but may be adapted for public library use. It is a solid resource for librarians.
The Trevor Project. (2010). Retrieved from
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/
Free Resource.
The Trevor Project is a national organization providing free crisis services and suicide prevention for LGBTQ youth. The website also features a blog, as well as a section for parents and educators. Their call line: 866-488-7386. They also have a Facebook presence.
Webber, C. K. (2010). Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning teen literature: A guide to reading interests (Genreflecting advisory series). Santa Barbara: Libraries Unlimited.
ISBN: 1591585066
$45.00
A great resource and genre guide for different forms of literature (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, mystery, graphic novels, and much more) as well as different topics all relating to LGBTQ youth. An essential book for a reader's advisory, or for any library developing a collection for LGBTQ teens.
Wind, L. (2012). I’m here. I’m queer. What the hell do I read? Retrieved from
http://www.leewind.org/
Free Resource.
A blog by Lee Wind M.Ed. featuring a blog on books, politics, events, and other LGBTQ topics. Not only is there a blog, but this site is organized into a detailed subject guide to books for LGBTQ youth from easy readers to YA and graphic novels. This is the perfect resource for a LGBTQ-themed reader’s advisory—and it’s kept current!