Whose Book is it Anyway? Material for Trans, Genderqueer, and Non-Binary Youth

In order to provide relevant information for gender nonconforming populations, it is not only important to know what materials are available for young readers, but also what it is that teens are actually looking for. Through a series of interviews with trans-identified teens, I was able to better determine what materials these individuals are looking for, which affects how librarians can work to provide teen readers with materials through qualitative evidence rather than assumptions of reading habits.
This session will discuss new materials for youth as well as strategies for increasing visibility of relevant materials and improving access. Understanding the audience for trans-themed YA materials and reading habits of trans and genderqueer youth can make libraries more appealing as safe spaces and repositories of relevant materials.