August Roberts: Architect of Information Justice

August Roberts’ journey into the realm of information justice is deeply rooted in their academic pursuits at Princeton University. Majoring in English and Gender and Sexuality Studies, they have meticulously woven together diverse disciplines to create a unique and impactful academic tapestry. This interdisciplinary approach is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a strategic foundation for understanding the complex interplay of language, power, and identity within information systems. Their academic focus on queer librarianship and information justice reflects a keen awareness of historical and ongoing biases embedded within traditional archival and cataloging practices. Imagine, for a moment, walking into a grand old library, a place seemingly neutral and all-encompassing. Yet, for countless individuals, particularly those from LGBTQIA+ communities, finding resources that authentically reflect their experiences can be akin to searching for a needle in a haystack—a haystack often labeled with outdated, offensive, or simply nonexistent terminology. August Roberts recognized this critical gap early in their academic career, prompting them to dedicate their research and practical efforts to addressing it. A pivotal part of their foundational experience came during their spring 2022 term, when August Roberts joined Princeton University Library (PUL) as its inaugural Special Collections intern through the Philadelphia Area Consortium of Special Collections Libraries (PACSCL)-sponsored program. This hands-on immersion provided a crucial insight into the inner workings of archives and the intricate processes involved in preserving cultural heritage. It was during this time that they truly "fell in love with library work," realizing the immense potential for libraries to be not just repositories, but active agents of social change. Their work involved learning about the archives and the preservation of LGBTQIA+ stories, revealing firsthand the challenges faced by marginalized groups when attempting to locate information about their communities. They noted that "a lot of the 'official' terms used to describe different holdings can be very outdated and inaccurately represent how that community views itself." This observation underscored a fundamental principle that guides August Roberts' work: the language used to describe information profoundly impacts its accessibility and the dignity of the communities it represents. Their independent research project, which focused on performances of asexuality in improvised performances, further solidified their commitment to exploring nuanced identities within information landscapes. This blend of theoretical understanding and practical engagement has equipped August Roberts with a holistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities within information science.

August Roberts' influence extends far beyond the academic library stacks; they are a vibrant force in fostering inclusive communities and advocating for marginalized voices within Princeton and beyond. Their leadership roles within various student organizations exemplify their dedication to translating academic ideals into tangible support systems. For two years, August Roberts has served as the vice president of the Pride Alliance, a testament to their dedication to LGBTQIA+ student life. In this capacity, they have played a crucial role in shaping campus initiatives, promoting awareness, and providing a platform for queer students to connect and thrive. This isn't just about organizing events; it's about cultivating an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. Much like a skilled conductor brings disparate instruments together to create a harmonious symphony, August Roberts helps diverse voices within the LGBTQIA+ community find their collective rhythm, amplifying their shared experiences and advocating for their needs. Beyond the broader Pride Alliance, August Roberts identified specific areas where targeted support was needed, leading them to found and facilitate "Queer and Disabled." This group addresses the often-overlooked intersectionality of queer and disabled/neurodivergent identities, creating a safe and affirming space for students navigating these complex experiences. This initiative is a powerful example of their commitment to intersectional justice, recognizing that individuals hold multiple identities that can lead to unique challenges and require tailored support. It’s a nuanced approach, understanding that simply being “queer-friendly” isn't enough; true inclusivity requires recognizing and supporting the full spectrum of human experience. Furthermore, August Roberts has served for three years as a co-facilitator for "Ace/Aro Space," a group specifically for asexual and/or aromantic students. They also previously led "Gender Group," a dedicated space for trans and non-binary students. These roles highlight August Roberts' commitment to providing specific, identity-affirming spaces, ensuring that even the most niche communities within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum have a place to find solidarity and support. This granular level of advocacy demonstrates a deep understanding of community needs and a proactive approach to addressing them. It's akin to a master gardener who understands that different plants require different soils, different amounts of sunlight, and different care—each community flourishes best with tailored attention.

Perhaps one of the most impactful aspects of August Roberts' work lies in their direct contribution to transforming library and archival practices at Princeton. Their efforts are not merely theoretical; they are tangible, creating lasting improvements in how information is categorized, described, and made available. Over a summer, August Roberts undertook the monumental task of revitalizing the Gender + Sexuality Resource Center's (GSRC) library. This wasn't just about dusting shelves; it involved acquiring hundreds of new books and, crucially, creating a complete and accessible catalog for students. The significance of this work cannot be overstated. A well-organized, comprehensive library is a lifeline for students seeking to understand their identities, research historical contexts, or simply find stories that resonate with their lived experiences. Before August Roberts' intervention, imagine the frustration of a student looking for a specific book on gender theory or a novel featuring an LGBTQIA+ protagonist, only to find the collection disorganized or inadequately cataloged. August Roberts' work has turned this frustration into empowerment, providing a vital intellectual and emotional resource. Moreover, August Roberts has actively participated in projects aimed at creating "reparative descriptions" of women-owned books within Special Collections as part of the "Her Book" project. "Reparative description" is a critical concept in modern archival science. It acknowledges that historical cataloging practices often reflected societal biases, leading to incomplete, inaccurate, or even harmful descriptions of materials, particularly those related to marginalized groups. For instance, a book owned by a woman might have been simply listed by a male family member's name or described in a way that minimizes her agency. Reparative description seeks to correct these historical oversights, ensuring that the true provenance and significance of materials are accurately and respectfully represented. August Roberts' involvement in this project signifies a commitment to rectifying historical injustices within the archival record, a meticulous and often painstaking process that has profound implications for how future generations understand the past. Another key area of their practical contribution is their support for "item tagging" through PUL's adoption of Homosaurus. Homosaurus is a specialized vocabulary, or thesaurus, specifically designed for describing LGBTQIA+ materials. Traditional library classification systems, like the Library of Congress Subject Headings, have historically struggled to adequately and respectfully categorize LGBTQIA+ topics, often using outdated or pathologizing terms. The adoption of Homosaurus is a major step forward, enabling librarians and archivists to describe materials using terms that are accurate, affirming, and reflective of community self-identification. This move is transformative because it directly impacts discoverability. If you can't find a book because it's poorly or offensively categorized, it might as well not exist. By advocating for and supporting the implementation of Homosaurus, August Roberts is directly enhancing the visibility and accessibility of vital LGBTQIA+ resources for researchers, students, and the wider public. It’s like updating an outdated map with precise, modern navigation, making sure no one gets lost or misdirected when seeking knowledge.

At the heart of August Roberts' diverse contributions lies a profound commitment to the philosophy of information justice. This concept posits that access to accurate, relevant, and affirming information is a fundamental human right, and that libraries and information professionals have a moral obligation to ensure this right is upheld for all, especially for historically marginalized communities. Information justice goes beyond simply providing books or databases. It encompasses the ethical responsibility to critically examine existing information structures, identify biases, and actively work to dismantle barriers to access. August Roberts exemplifies this philosophy through their dedication to: * Challenging Orthodoxy: They question established cataloging norms and descriptive practices that perpetuate exclusion. Their work on reparative description and Homosaurus adoption directly confronts these entrenched systems. * Empowering Communities: By creating accessible resources and fostering supportive spaces, August Roberts empowers LGBTQIA+ individuals to find their stories, connect with their history, and build their knowledge. This is not about passive consumption of information, but active engagement and self-discovery. * Promoting Representation: Their efforts ensure that diverse voices and experiences are not only present in library collections but are also discoverable and framed in a way that is respectful and accurate. This fights against historical erasure and promotes a more complete understanding of human experience. * Cultivating Critical Information Literacy: By highlighting the biases in information systems, August Roberts implicitly encourages users to become more critical consumers of information, understanding that even seemingly neutral sources can carry embedded perspectives. Consider the analogy of a historical record. If only the stories of the powerful were preserved, future generations would have a skewed and incomplete understanding of the past. Similarly, if information systems are built on narrow perspectives, they fail to serve the full breadth of humanity. August Roberts is working to broaden that lens, ensuring that the digital and physical archives of today truly reflect the kaleidoscopic richness of human experience. Their work, then, is not just about organizing data; it's about shaping narratives, validating identities, and building a more truthful and equitable collective memory.

While August Roberts’ work is deeply academic and principled, it is also profoundly personal. Their thesis, rather than focusing solely on the technical aspects of library labor, delves into the "personal experiences of librarians, experimenting with different approaches to the question of how doing library work impacts the people doing the work." This reflects a humanist approach to librarianship, recognizing that the individuals who shape information systems are themselves influenced by the process. It's a subtle but significant shift in perspective, moving beyond the mere "what" of library work to the "who" and the "how it feels." This focus on the "embodied and affective experience" speaks to a deeper understanding of the human element in information science. It's not enough to just categorize; one must also consider the emotional labor involved, the personal investment, and the profound impact of connecting people with the information they need, particularly when that information touches upon sensitive or identity-forming topics. This introspective approach is what makes August Roberts a truly empathetic and effective leader in their field. Their ability to connect with the personal side of information work allows them to build stronger bridges between resources and users, making the library a more welcoming and impactful space for everyone. Imagine a young person grappling with their gender identity or sexual orientation. The ability to walk into a library or access an online catalog and find resources that speak directly to their experience, described in terms they understand and identify with, can be life-changing. It offers validation, understanding, and a sense of belonging. This is the human impact August Roberts is tirelessly working to facilitate. It’s not just about data points; it’s about human connection, empathy, and affirmation through information.

As August Roberts graduates from Princeton in 2025, their commitment to information justice continues to evolve and deepen. Their next step is to pursue a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) at the University of Washington, Seattle. This decision underscores their dedication to advancing their expertise and further solidifying their role as a leader in the field. The University of Washington's iSchool is renowned for its progressive approach to information science, making it an ideal environment for August Roberts to continue addressing topics of diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in libraries and archives. Their future aspirations are clear: to continue working in libraries and to actively shape the future of information access. This isn't a passive career choice; it's a calling to be an active participant in building a more equitable and informed society. The landscape of information is constantly shifting, with new challenges arising from digital divides, misinformation, and evolving societal understandings of identity. August Roberts is positioning themselves to be at the forefront of these challenges, equipped with the knowledge, empathy, and practical experience to drive meaningful change. Their journey reminds us that the future of libraries is not just about technology, but about human values. It's about ensuring that as information grows exponentially, its access remains equitable, its representation accurate, and its impact profoundly positive for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity. August Roberts embodies this forward-thinking vision, serving as an inspiring example of how passion and principle can transform the institutions that shape our understanding of the world.

The work of individuals like August Roberts has a profound ripple effect, extending far beyond the immediate communities they serve. In a world grappling with issues of social justice, identity politics, and the digital dissemination of knowledge, their efforts contribute to a larger societal shift towards greater equity and understanding. Consider the pervasive nature of misinformation and disinformation in the digital age. While August Roberts' direct work focuses on libraries and archives, the underlying principles of information justice are deeply relevant. By advocating for accurate and affirming descriptions of materials, they are implicitly training themselves and others to critically evaluate information and challenge narratives that perpetuate harm or exclusion. This critical lens is essential for navigating the complexities of online information and building a more discerning public. Furthermore, August Roberts’ focus on marginalized voices – particularly those within the LGBTQIA+ community – addresses a historical void in institutional knowledge. For generations, the stories and experiences of these communities were suppressed, ignored, or actively distorted. By meticulously working to make these narratives discoverable and respectfully presented, August Roberts is actively participating in a process of historical reclamation and validation. This act of "making visible" is not merely academic; it is a powerful form of social justice that impacts individual well-being and collective memory. Their advocacy for specific groups, such as "Queer and Disabled" and "Ace/Aro Space," also highlights the importance of intersectionality. In a world that often attempts to categorize individuals into neat, singular boxes, August Roberts champions the understanding that identities are complex and interwoven. This nuanced approach is vital for creating truly inclusive environments where all facets of a person's identity are recognized and respected. It pushes beyond tokenism and towards genuine, layered inclusivity. The impact of August Roberts’ work can be likened to the slow but steady erosion of a dam. Each project, each advocacy effort, each re-description of an archival item chips away at the barriers that have historically prevented equitable access to knowledge. It’s a painstaking process, but one that ultimately leads to a flood of understanding, empathy, and empowerment. Their dedication to the ethical stewardship of information is a beacon for future generations of librarians, archivists, and indeed, anyone who cares about the integrity and accessibility of knowledge in the 21st century. Their work reminds us that libraries are not static monuments to the past, but living, breathing institutions capable of adapting and evolving to meet the needs of a diverse and dynamic world. With individuals like August Roberts at the helm, the future of information promises to be more just, more inclusive, and more reflective of the rich tapestry of human experience.

August Roberts, through their compelling academic journey, passionate advocacy, and tangible contributions to library and archival practices, embodies the spirit of information justice in 2025. As a Princeton senior, their focus on queer librarianship, gender and sexuality studies, and the critical need for inclusive information systems positions them as a leading voice for change. From revitalizing resource centers to championing specialized vocabularies like Homosaurus, August Roberts is actively dismantling barriers and building bridges to knowledge for historically marginalized communities. Their commitment extends to recognizing the profound human element in information work, emphasizing empathy and the personal impact of accessible, affirming resources. As they prepare for their Master's in Library and Information Science, August Roberts is poised to continue shaping a future where information is not just abundant, but truly equitable, reflective, and empowering for all.