Keywords
academic libraries, LGBTQ, LGBTQ+ librarianship, academic librarianship, coming out at work
Abstract
This chapter presents the deeply personal and professional journey of Jason D. Phillips, an academic librarian, as he navigates the challenges of embracing his identity as a gay man within the conservative environments of Southern academia. Beginning with a facetious reflection that library school "made him gay," Phillips recounts how his education and early professional experiences became transformative, offering acceptance, community, and the impetus to come out. His story unfolds across pivotal moments—from confronting internalized homophobia and grappling with visibility in conservative workplaces, to finding mentorship, building GLBT library collections, and becoming an advocate for inclusion and intellectual freedom. Phillips explores the tensions between personal authenticity and professional discretion, the impact of supportive mentors and allies, and the power of representation in academic spaces. Through his evolving roles, from graduate student to professional librarian, he illustrates how librarianship can serve as a platform for activism and community building, even amid systemic resistance. The chapter ultimately underscores the ongoing struggle for visibility, inclusion, and the right to exist fully—both personally and professionally—as a member of the GLBT community.
Publication Date
5-2011
Original Citation
Phillips, J. D. (2011). It’s Okay to BE Gay…: A Librarian’s Journey to Acceptance and Activism. In T. Nectoux (Ed.), Out Behind the Desk: Workplace Issues for LGBTQ Librarians, (pp. 33-47). Series on Gender and Sexuality in Librarianship, no. 1. Duluth, MN: Library Juice Press.
Document Type
Book Chapter
Copyright Status
Author retained
Publication Version
Author's version
Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
Department
UCF Libraries
STARS Citation
Phillips, Jason D., "It’s Okay to BE Gay…: A Librarian’s Journey to Acceptance and Activism" (2011). Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works. 1325.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/ucfscholar/1325