Open Shelf Episode 1: Feminist Librarianship
Coming Friday 21st August!
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The Open Shelf podcast episode is brought to you by the University of Glasgow Impact Acceleration Fund.
Host Dr David McMenemy, Professor of Information Ethics and Policy at the University of Glasgow (formerly Reader of Information Studies) welcomes guest Kirsten MacQuarrie, Sector Development Manager at CILIPS and Editor of Feminist Librarianship: Principles, Practices and Provocations (Facet Publishing).
2026 saw the publication of Feminist Librarianship and in this episode, Kirsten and David converse on the various themes of the book, which sees contributions from over 20 women across the Library and Information sector and beyond. The first of its kind to take a look at women’s work in the sector in the UK the book explores many topics from attachment theory and eco feminism to imposter syndrome. Intersectional theory practiced throughout the text allows different facets and experiences to be shared and reflected on by the women working on the front lines.
This conversation delves into the systemic biases at play for women in the sector and explores how this has been dealt with historically, and how it impacts on the sector contemporarily. As a steadfast advocate for the profession, Kirsten often shares that an investment in libraries is an investment in women, this podcast captures Kirsten’s reflections on this rallying cry and provides practical insights into how we can make the sector a more hospitable place for women’s contributions.
Reflections from CILIPS colleagues and contributors Leah Higgins and Sean McNamara highlight the need for allyship and widening the conversation to include a range of perspectives from all experiences.
Click here to buy your copy of Feminist Librarianship: Principles, Practices and Provocations.