Public Libraries: Creating Safe Spaces for Homeless LGBTQ Youth

“We must create a home for our LGBT youth. This home is an inner and outer dwelling where life is understood and respected in a safe place within mainstream culture” (Goldman, 2008, Introduction, p.xxvii). The numbers of homeless youth in the United States are daunting. According to the Center for American Progress, as of June 21, 2010, there were approximately 1.6 million to 2.8 million homeless 12 to 24-year-olds in the United States. Of these, it is estimated that 20 to 40% are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ), compared to an estimated 5 to 10% of the overall youth population - obviously a disproportionate number. This percentage means that at least 320,000 to 400,000 LGBTQ youth face homelessness each year. The topic of LGBTQ youth homelessness and public libraries is a complex one. These young people are triply challenged: They are young, they are homeless and they identify as LGBTQ. To truly understand their needs, all three of these aspects must be considered.