Safe at Home: Co-curricular Spaces for Generative, (un)safe Conversations

Abstract

Third space describes an intentional space where normative assumptions are challenged by shared encounter with cultural and ideological otherness; third spaces open possibilities for transformational education. Beam Library at Oklahoma Christian University generates third space experiences through co-curricular events that engage the intersection of faith and culture. Specifically, our Safe at Home chapel exists as a generous (un)safe space that facilitates crucial conversation about gender, sexuality, and faith, empowering students who may feel unsafe because they are or affirm LGBTQIA individuals. Library initiatives like Safe at Home chapel create third space learning experiences, positioning the library at the intersection of formation and information, re-visioning the library as facilitator of generative conversation in a generously hospitable space. As co-curricular entities, academic libraries are aptly situated for the creation of third spaces, demonstrating the educational and formational value of the library as third space.