In the United States, October is annually recognized as LGBT+ History Month. It is a time in which the history and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other members of the LGBT+ community are honored. This tradition began nearly 30 years ago with Missouri high school teacher Rodney Wilson and continues to provide those from all walks of life with historical representation, role models and a wealth of understanding and knowledge concerning the rich background of the LGBT+ community. LGBT+ History Month coincides with National Coming Out Day, which is observed each year on Oct. 11.
In honor of LGBT+ History Month, the Charles C. Sherrod Library has curated a hand-selected collection of fiction and non-fiction media that encompass themes related to the community. Located on the first floor, students, faculty and staff can expect to find romance novels, autobiographies, historical fiction and more among the literature and digital media displayed. Additionally, Sherrod is also offering bookmarks that further direct students to LGBT+ resources offered in print or online, as well as meeting information for ETSU’s student-led LGBT+ organization, Sexuality and Gender Alliance.
“Sherrod Library is committed to being a community that values diversity in our collections, among our users and in our employees. The free and open exchange of information and experiences is a critical first step in helping all of us gain a greater understanding of what it means to be a unique individual in a very diverse world. It is with this hope that we present these library resources relating to the LGBTQIA+ experience.”
In addition to the display, Sherrod Library has launched an “LGBTQIA+ Library Resources” page on its website. It can be found at libraries.etsu.edu/lgbtqia, and contains further ETSU print resources, eBooks, streaming media, government policy information as it relates to LGBT+ individuals and other campus resources.
