Developments in LGBTQ provision in secondary school library services since the abolition of Section 28

The article explores progress made in LGBTQ provision in UK secondary school libraries since Section 28 was repealed in 2003. Little research has been conducted on LGBTQ provision in UK school libraries. This paper aims to fill a research gap in this field. Data was gathered from two qualitative surveys conducted in 2013. The first survey was aimed at LGBTQ people who had been pupils of a UK secondary school at some point during the period 2003–2013. The second was aimed at librarians currently working in UK secondary schools. The surveys were disseminated using targeted mailing lists and social media. A four-staged thematic analysis of the data was undertaken. The research found that school library use among LGBTQ teens is low due to LGBTQ invisibility and fear experienced by young LGBTQ people. LGBTQ school library provision would be highly valued by most LGBTQ pupils. Librarians are generally positive about LGBTQ provision, although they respond differently to diversity. Some adopt a neutral approach to inclusion; others offer more targeted and active support. Librarians’ knowledge and confidence regarding LGBTQ provision also varies. The paper provides increased insight into LGBTQ school library provision in the UK and provides recommendations to improve practice.