Homelessness and Libraries: A Literature Review of How the Concern for Inclusion of Homelessness Mirrors Larger Issues In Library and Information Science
Description:
The library as a place of inclusion and a neutral space for access to information is a common and popular assertion. However, more recently, librarians and scholars have raised the question of its validity. By examining how contemporary authors are addressing this in relation to homelessness, it is possible to see wider connections to themes and concerns about these claims. This essay looks at two questions pertaining to homelessness and public libraries. The first question seeks to uncover what roles librarians and other scholars believe that a public library has when dealing with homelessness and inclusion. The second question asks, what connections can be made between this and larger Library and Information Science (LIS) issues? The methodology for this paper is rooted in my desire to connect the very real suggestions that librarians have made about increasing inclusion with theories of a politicized public space and democracy.
Project from: Pratt Institute, INFO 601: Foundations of Information
Methods
I conducted the research for this project by exploring scholarly databases, news outlets and library blogs. I wanted to cover an array of perspectives, from the academic world, the general public and from working librarians. Through these textual sources I was able to analysize the perspectives and connect a singular issue with larger trends within the LIS field.
My Role
I am the sole creator of this project.
Learning Outcome Achieved
Research
Rationale
This essay exemplifies my ability to conduct research, collect and analyze sources, as well as use credible evidence to answer research questions. Through the research process I was able to draw connections and trends within the field of LIS, stemming from an incident reported in the media, this shows originality and potential to contribute to the feild. This project was goal oriented and the outcry from the selected event stretched across multiple platforms and environments, making the evaluation of sources even more important.
Amber Pasiak 