Supporting inclusion and diversity with Out on the Shelves

Published on 10 July 2023

Upper Hutt Libraries is proud to have had such tremendous support from the community during the month of June when we celebrated OUT ON THE SHELVES.   

We had book displays on LGBTQ+ books, events for our communities and reading recommendations on social media.  One of the highlights from OUT ON THE SHELVES was our “Speed Date with a Book” event which was well-received by our youth.  “I enjoyed getting to judge the books and seeing what there is available,” said one of the youths who attended the event.  The teens who attended the “Book Swap and High Tea” event enjoyed having some kai and chatting with others in the community. “It was great getting a place to hang out and chat about books!”  

OUT ON THE SHELVES is an initiative kickstarted by InsideOut. It aims to create an inclusive space within libraries and schools for LGBTQ+ literature, authors, and readers.  

Embracing Diversity in Literature 

The importance of diversity in literature cannot be overstated. It allows individuals from all walks of life to see themselves represented, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. OUT ON THE SHELVES recognises the significance of LGBTQ+ literature and dedicated an entire month to promote its visibility and accessibility. 

Throughout the month of June, we featured an impressive collection of books, showcasing stories that explore the LGBTQ+ experience from various perspectives. These books offered a wealth of insight and understanding, helping readers discover the breadth and depth of the LGBTQ+ community's narratives. From heartwarming coming-of-age stories to insightful memoirs, these books had the power to change lives and challenge societal norms. 

Click here to view our online recommendation for PRIDE books. 

Creating Safe Spaces 

Beyond curating a diverse selection of books, our OUT ON THE SHELVES events aimed to create safe spaces within our libraries for our diverse communities where everyone can feel accepted and supported. 

As we bid farewell to this month-long celebration, it is crucial to recognise the lasting impact OUT ON THE SHELVES has had on individuals, communities, and libraries themselves - the richness of LGBTQ+ literature and fostering inclusivity within libraries. 

About Out on the Shelves 

OUT ON THE SHELVES is a special initiative by InsideOUT. Check out the InsideOUT website for more book recommendations and other resources.