“In Brief

This paper explores the lived experiences of disabled patrons in public library spaces, investigating how dysconscious ableism manifests in their daily interactions. Dysconscious ableism is an impaired or distorted way of thinking about disability and that tacitly accepts dominant ableist norms and privileges. Drawing on critical theory and ethnographic methods, the paper uncovers pervasive, oppressive experiences and challenges within library environments. Specifically, this paper presents four key ways dysconscious ableism surfaces in disabled patrons’ experiences. Patrons seek out community and belonging while often feeling judged or dismissed. Patrons engage in access and comfort seeking such as when navigating physical and sensory-related barriers. Patrons with non-apparent disabilities experience skepticism toward their disability authenticity and identity resulting from limited understandings of disability. Lastly, disabled patrons engage in emotional and cognitive management labor to navigate stigma and maintain dignity, reflecting internalized oppression and dominant ableist norms. By centering these previously underrepresented voices, this research offers a critical understanding of dysconscious ableism in public librarianship. It advocates for genuinely inclusive and supportive library environments that prioritize lived experience in design and practice.”