THE LIBRARY AS SANCTUARY FOR INNER-CITY YOUTH: PROTECTIONS, IMPLICATIONS, COHESIONS, TENSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND INSPIRATIONS.

by Lambert, Sylvia Leigh

This study explores the library-as-sanctuary, a motif adopted by many in the library community, but not explored elaborately prior to this work. It applies this motif, its history, and recastings to youth services of inner-city public libraries. After studying the context of contemporary low-income urban youths' lives, a detailed discussion follows with attention to the implications of the sanctuary motif to inner-city youth services. Tensions and cohesions are highlighted. Inspired by the motif, recommendations are made for spatial design, collection development, programming, personnel, advocacy, and public policy.