How 5 Library Systems Celebrated Pride Month This Year

Libraries have a long-standing relationship with the LGBTQIA+ community. On July 1, 1970, a little more than a year after the Stonewall Uprising, the American Library Association (ALA) held its annual conference in Detroit, and the Task Force on Gay Liberation (TFGL) met for the first time. The goal of the meeting was to address the lack of LGBTQ+ representation in library collections and services.

Library classification schemes and subject headings were revised. The first LGBTQIA+ reading list, “The Gay Bibliography,” was assembled and included 37 gay-positive books. Job discrimination was also addressed at this meeting. In 1980, the final installment of “The Gay Bibliography” was printed. It included 563 titles, and approximately 38,000 copies of the list were distributed.

The TFGL laid the groundwork for libraries to begin aligning themselves with the Queer community more openly. As June became a time for national Pride celebration, libraries also started joining in the festivities.

In 1992, the TFGL marched alongside the LGBTQIA+ community in the San Francisco Pride Parade. Their participation was featured on the cover of American Libraries magazine, an ALA publication. In 1995, a pivotal year for the AIDS epidemic, the TFGL changed its name to the Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Task Force (GLBTF).

The GLBTF transitioned to round table status on June 30, 1999, becoming the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Round Table of the American Library Association (GLBTRT). In 2019, the round table was renamed the Rainbow Round Table (RRT). Public libraries everywhere have grown in their show of support.

In this roundup, we shine a spotlight on libraries that championed LGBTQIA+ voices during Pride Month 2025.

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1. Public Library of Brookline (MA)

The Public Library of Brookline hosted a scavenger hunt for kids and tweens at all its library branches. It showcased the Kings & Queens: A Brief History of Drag Exhibit, educating the public about drag culture and activism. Library patrons participated in printmaking and craft workshops, making felted rainbow pins and cardboard collages.

The Queer Reading Group and YA Author Panel met to discuss favorite Queer titles and authors in a stress-free environment. The biggest event took place on June 21, a Pride at the Library family event. This event boasted a drag show, photo booth, and live music.

2. Arlington Public Library (VA)

Arlington Public Library offered several programs this year, with some available exclusively at specific branches. On June 4, patrons of all ages were invited to participate in a Queer Joy Art Party in preparation for DC’s World Pride Fest and Parade. Associate Professor Dr. David Corwin (they/them) from George Mason University hosted a Pride lecture at the library on June 16. Attendees learned how to eliminate discrimination against those who do not fit traditional views about gender and sexuality.

The library also hosted several book clubs, such as Take a Chance (YA) and Never Too Old (YA/Adult), on June 9 and 17, respectively. On June 21, the library provided Take-and-Make Rainbow Pride Bracelet Kits to patrons. Teens were invited to attend Crafternoon on June 24 to make celebratory Pride keychains. Teen Rock Painting was also offered on June 25, where teens were encouraged to paint rocks with Pride themes.

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3. Chicago Public Library (IL)

Chicago Public Library (CPL) collaborated with several other organizations this year to host Pride programs. The Evanston Public Library, a branch of CPL, and the Chicago Bar Association cohosted a presentation on LGBTQIA+ and the law. A Q&A session followed the presentation. Lurie Children’s Hospital provided a ninety-minute, peer-guided, inclusive sexual health and HIV workshop for LGBTQIA+ teens. This event was led by a youth facilitator and a Lurie staff person.

Several branches offered drag storytimes, each opting to host this event on a different weekend of the month. Other branches distributed Pride Rainbow Grab & Go Kits, allowing patrons to take home a pack of art supplies to create a Pride-themed craft. Pride coloring sheets, designed by Chicago artist Ariel Bonilla, were available to patrons throughout June. CPL also provides monthly HIV/STI screenings throughout the year. 

4. Free Library of Philadelphia (PA)

This year’s Pride celebration theme at the Free Library of Philadelphia was Always Been Here, Always Will Be. The theme acknowledges that Queer people are deeply rooted in human history and not a modern phenomenon.

The FLP hosted several activities, like book clubs and craft events, similar to other libraries. There was a Kid Rave Dance Party on June 6 at the Welsh Road Library. The Fox Chase Library held the Rainbow Parenting Book Club for parents of LGBTQIA+ children, and the Queer Clothing Swap took place on June 28 at the Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library.

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5. Anne Arundel County Public Library (MD)

The Severn Library, a branch of the Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL), used a Pride Escape Room activity to teach LGBTQIA+ history in a unique and engaging way. Participants had to solve puzzles that helped them uncover LGBTQIA+ history along the way in order to break free from the escape room.

Riviera Beach Library, another branch of AACPL, hosted a weekly film festival on Tuesday evenings. AACPL also offered numerous art events, craft meetups, equity talks, and a clothing swap. Most notable was the library’s Park and Pride car meetup, where patrons arrived in decked-out vehicles and personal garb to celebrate Pride month.

Libraries and Pride

Libraries across the country proudly celebrated PRIDE this year. From rainbow story hours to arts and crafts workshops, clothing swaps, movie screenings, and more, libraries found countless ways to foster a sense of community and inclusion for LGBTQIA+ persons.

Libraries continue to support Queer communities throughout the year with public programs and library services. After decades of transformation, libraries have evolved from quiet advocates to vibrant allies. Libraries provide inclusive access to stories, spaces, and support—shaping a more just and joyful future for all.

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