Where Are We Now? Gender, Technology, and Libraries

A decade ago, research on gender, libraries, and information technology (IT) substantiated the over-representation of men in IT roles within the female-dominated profession of librarianship. At the same time, studies indicated that higher salaries were typically earned by employees in technology-related positions than those working in other library departments. Researchers identified several factors such as gender bias, gender roles, educational access, and organizational culture as barriers to reaching gender parity within the information technology sector of librarianship. In this session, the presenters will discuss the current state of gender and information technology, compared to a decade ago. Specifically, they will share preliminary findings from a replication of Melissa Lamont’s 2009 study, “Gender, Technology, and Libraries” and examine the current landscape for women in IT positions. Lastly, they will address issues of diversity, beyond gender, and what libraries need to do to reflect the technology needs and experiences of the communities they serve today