Qualitative Research Article Review: LGBT+ Provision in School Libraries
Related Learning Outcome
I.a. Students are able to evaluate critically, reflect, and problem-solve individually as well as collaboratively.
Artifact Overview
This artifact reviews a qualitative research article by Victoria Attwell on LGBT+ provision in school libraries in the United Kingdom. The article examines how school librarians understand, support, and sometimes limit LGBT+ resources more than fifteen years after the repeal of Section 28. The study uses survey responses and thematic analysis to explore librarians’ confidence, cataloging practices, censorship concerns, perceived demand, budget constraints, neutrality, and school climate.
I selected this artifact for Outcome I.a because the review required critical evaluation of a research study’s purpose, design, strengths, and limitations. The artifact recognizes the value of thematic analysis for capturing nuance in librarians’ own words, while also identifying limitations related to self-reported data, optional responses, and the absence of student perspectives. This project reflects my ability to evaluate research thoughtfully and connect it to real professional concerns, especially inclusive collections, service to marginalized students, and the gap between stated professional values and actual library practice.