FOI request (FOIR-524099299)

Authority LGBT library and museum policies

Requested Thu 15 June 2023
Responded Tue 12 September 2023

I am interested in issues of gender and sexuality in the authority area, particularly with regard to libraries and museums;

1. If applicable, can you please detail what work has been undertaken to address issues of inclusion, gender, sexuality, and LGBTQIA+ issues generally in council museums?

For example, new displays on LGBTQIA+, dropping pronouns from displays, and so on.

2. Essentially the same as for part 1 , but can you provide information on how council libraries have addressed these issues?

For example, have any books been specifically banned or removed from the library, or hidden from public view, perhaps in a restricted area? Please detail these.

Has a system of trigger warnings been established for sensitive topics? If warnings have been added, could you detail which books have received a warning?

What is the policy for sourcing books on LGBTQIA+ issues?

For the above work to, gender, sexuality, and LGBTQIA+ issues generally, can you please provide information any grants received by the council to pursue this work, or any payments or grants made by the council to pursue this work (for example, charities with expertise in this area)?

Can you also detail any outside advice of consultation offered or procured for all issues detailed above, that is, boosting LGBTQIA+ inclusion in libraries and museums?

Response

Please accept my apologies for the delay in responding.

1. Since approximately 2018, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery (HMAG) began its trajectory towards becoming a community oriented and more socially engaged museum.

HMAG secured funding from Arts Council England, Art Fund, and the Esmee Fairbairn Collections Fund to improve the visibility of experiences that have historically been underrepresented in collections and displays. This funding led to the creation of a Queer History Collective in 2020. They have produced films, curated a temporary exhibition, contributed to contemporary collecting, hosted events, and researched and curated a queer history trail, which is part of the permanent display.

HMAG also featured LGBTQ+= me, an exhibition of zines.

Projects have been supported by LGBTQ+ professionals in museums and arts organisations.

2. Hastings Borough Council is not responsible for libraries, this function is dealt with by East Sussex County Council. Please visit their website for further information:

https://www.eastsussex.gov.uk