Between shelves and closets

cultural policies and information demands of the LGBTQIAP+ population in Recife's public libraries

Abstract

This research aims to analyze public libraries in the city of Recife as a space for cultural mediation conducive to the formulation and implementation of public cultural policies aimed at the LGBTQIAP+ population. Methodologically characterized as exploratory, with bibliographical and documental procedures, its specific objectives are: a) to discuss the public library in Brazil as a cultural mediation space in order to promote diversity; b) to identify the performance of public libraries in the city of Recife about a cultural policy proposal to address issues related to gender and sexuality in these spaces; c) to ascertain the performance of cultural agents of public libraries in Recife in the formulation and implementation of cultural policies through the active construction of this process. In order to achieve these goals, we underwent interviews considering the universe of public libraries in Recife and the population as the managers of these libraries, counting the sample with 5 collaborators. The research notes the importance for the public library, supported by cultural public policies, to deal with gender and sexuality matters through actions of cultural mediation aimed at constructing a society that’s more receptive to the LGBTQIAP+ community.