National libraries around the world have been tasked with preserving important cultural artifacts for future generations. This includes books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, audio recordings, movies, newspapers, and other media.
When it comes to transgender literature, there is no standardized process for archiving this material. Trans people are underrepresented in mainstream society, which makes their voices even more valuable. Many trans individuals write about their experiences living life outside the gender binary.
Censorship of trans literature
When national libraries acquire trans literary works, they must decide whether to archive them or censor them. There are many reasons why libraries might censor certain materials—for example, if they contain graphic violence or obscenities. Some critics argue that censoring trans literature contributes to the silencing of marginalized groups' perspectives and experiences. Others say that some trans literature should be protected from public view due to its potentially harmful impact on vulnerable readers.
The American Library Association's guidelines
The American Library Association provides guidance on how to select and curate library collections. Its guidelines state that librarians may choose to exclude materials that are "inconsistent with generally accepted social values." This leaves room for interpretation as to what qualifies as "socially acceptable," but it does not specify any particular criteria.
The British Library's approach
The British Library has a clear policy regarding the inclusion of trans literature in its collection. It states: "We aim to collect all published books relating to trans issues, regardless of age, date, language or format." This policy acknowledges that trans experiences have always existed throughout history and deserve recognition.
It also notes that it will not accept donations of erotic novels without approval from senior staff members.
Archiving trans literature
Once trans literature is acquired by a national library, there are various ways to preserve it for future generations. One common method is digitizing texts and making them available online through databases like WorldCat or Google Books. Another way is printing out physical copies on acid-free paper and storing them in climate-controlled environments.
Special collections
Some libraries create special collections dedicated exclusively to LGBTQ+ literature. These collections often include rare or hard-to-find items, such as zines, magazines, periodicals, and other ephemera related to queer culture. Some libraries have even created digital archives specifically for transgender authors, including the Trans Media Network at UCLA and the Transgender Archive at Amherst College.
Preserving private collections
Private individuals can also contribute to the preservation of trans literary works by donating their personal collections to libraries.
The Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas holds an extensive collection of materials related to the gay rights movement, including letters, photographs, and oral histories.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to archiving trans literature. National libraries must balance competing priorities of censorship versus accessibility when deciding what to collect and how to display these materials. By creating special collections and digital archives, librarians can ensure that this important genre will be accessible for years to come.
How do national libraries archive—or censor—trans literature?
National libraries archive trans literature by collecting works that represent the diversity of experiences within the community and including them in their collections. They may also create specialized sections dedicated to trans literature to ensure it is easily accessible and visible to readers. In terms of censorship, national libraries are responsible for ensuring that all books meet certain standards of quality and adhere to legal guidelines regarding content. This can sometimes lead to controversy when it comes to trans literature due to its often challenging subject matter.