Engaging Ourselves in Library Work: A Narrative Inquiry on Employee Engagement and Performance of LGBTQ+ Library Employees

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the professional experiences of LGBTQ+ library employees, focusing on their work engagement and performance. It further examines how job resources, leadership, inclusion, management support, work-life balance, coworker support, recognition, and reward affect the work engagement, disengagement, and performance of LGBTQ+ library employees. The qualitative study employs a narrative approach to data collection and analysis, using in-depth interviews to elicit rich, detailed narratives of LGBTQ+ library employees' experiences. The findings of this study can benefit libraries by enhancing the engagement and performance of their LGBTQ+ employees, thereby adding to their success, productivity, and growth as an institution. This study has a managerial implication for creating a supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters engagement and performance among LGBTQ+ library employees.

Keywords: LGBTQ+ people, employee performance, employee engagement, librarians