Arts and Humanities Commons^™

Restricted Section: The Library As Presented In Harry Potter, Elizabeth A. Richardson, Sarah Wagner

Elizabeth A Richardson

The authors report on a content analysis of the conceptualization of the library and librarian in the books in the Harry Potter series. The analysis includes all mentions of the library, the librarian, and library materials, from all seven books of the series. Content examined includes the format and types of library materials mentioned, limitations on access to library materials, the image of the librarian, and the characters’ use of library materials. The analysis reveals that the library is presented as both a heavily guarded and censored area and also a place where the young heroes of the book have …