Repository logo
 

A study of female friendliness in library spaces and services

No Thumbnail Available

Date

2025-04-07

Advisor

Program batch

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Central Department of library and Information Science,T.U.Kirtipur.

Abstract

A thesis entitled, “A Study of Female Friendliness in Library Spaces And Services” adopts a qualitative approach in examining the safety, comfort, and accessibility of library spaces to female patrons and specifically feminist libraries. The goal of the study is to elucidate how feminist libraries meet the personal needs of women for their environment, services, and policies. Female library users were interviewed with the goal of gathering qualitative data on their perception, experience, and expectations about the library environment. Moreover, observational checklists were used in order to evaluate the physical surroundings, safety components, and the services offered to women. Female users found the library to be a safe and welcoming space, supported by security features, courteous staff, and a home-like atmosphere with comfortable seating and quiet zones. They appreciated gender-sensitive programs such as feminist writing workshops and career development sessions, which catered specifically to women’s needs. The presence of a female librarian and clear harassment reporting policies further enhanced their sense of security and ease. Users valued the library’s strong focus on feminist literature and mental health resources but identified gaps in materials on South Asian feminism, intersectionality, and women in STEM. Regular feedback collection and staff training on gender sensitivity helped ensure the library remained inclusive, responsive, and empowering for its female patrons. Lastly, the study concludes that although feminist libraries are a treasure trove of resources and a haven for women, there are areas where improvement can be brought about in terms of increasing collections, increased accessibility for differently-abled individuals, and improved security features. The study offers recommendations for improvement in these areas to enable libraries to cater to women from diverse socio cultural backgrounds. This study contributes to the library's contribution in the promotion of gender equality, providing a safe haven, and the empowerment of women through resource and information accessibility. Keywords: Libraries-Women, Library services, Special libraries

Description

This thesis written about female friendliness in libraries

Keywords

1 Libraries women 2 Libraries services and 3 Special libraries

Citation

Ghimire,Sabina(2025). A study of female friendliness in library spaces and services.[Master's thesis T.U].https://elibrary.tucdlis.edu.np/