New work by UW Collaborative for Reproductive Equity researcher Barbara Alvarez illuminates the complicated nature and often untapped potential of providing public library services for sexual and reproductive health information.
Alvarez, a doctoral student at the UW–Madison Information School and CORE Lab member, conducted a nationwide survey of library professionals regarding sexual and reproductive health information access in public libraries.
The survey, completed in the spring of 2022, is believed to be the first such national analysis of sexual and reproductive health information access in U.S. public libraries. The results were published this March in the journal Public Library Quarterly.
Alvarez’s survey is believed to be the first national analysis of sexual and reproductive health information access in U.S. public libraries.
Alvarez found that most library professionals (74 percent of respondents) believe their library needs to increase sexual and reproductive health information services. Libraries are uniquely positioned to provide accurate, evidence-based information about sexual and reproductive health care topics such as contraception, pregnancy options, and sexually transmitted infections. However, the survey findings also showed the complexities of providing this information.
For example, the study found that many library patrons do not ask for sexual and reproductive health information through their library’s reference desk. Due to a lack of patron requests or perceived interest, public librarians in the survey reported limited collection resources, library events, and community partnerships related to sexual and reproductive health.
Alvarez found that most public library professionals believe their library needs to increase sexual and reproductive health information services. The survey findings also showed the complexities of providing this information.
Alvarez notes that a lack of library reference questions does not necessarily reflect the health information needs of the community. Social stigma related to sexual and reproductive health subjects may prevent people from seeking this information, particularly from a library professional and in person.
The survey results also indicate that sexual and reproductive health information may be considered controversial by some library professionals. They may engage in self-censorship of such services due to a lack of administrative and community support and fear of professional repercussions.
To help make sexual and reproductive health information services more accessible in public libraries – in line with providing other health-based information as a library service – Alvarez suggests that library associations and library school programs incorporate these topics into professional development and discussions about intellectual freedom and health information. In addition, offering a variety of public reference platforms beyond in-person, as well as educational opportunities about how to use the library and search for information, can support library patrons in navigating potential stigma-related concerns, Alvarez notes.
Alvarez also recently authored a book related to these topics, The Library’s Guide to Sexual and Reproductive Health Information, published by American Library Association Editions. The book provides a straightforward, non-judgmental resource to support library workers in providing trustworthy, inclusive sexual and reproductive health information to patrons through fact-friendly reference and program services.