Creating equity and equal access to essential services is a focus of the San Diego Public Library and the Library Foundation. The Library’s mission is to inspire lifelong learning through connections to knowledge and each other. And the Library Foundation recognizes that for the Library to fulfill that mission, the Foundation must support programs that level the playing field and give all San Diegans opportunities to succeed.
And beyond promoting access to Library resources, the Library Foundation funding focus is on supporting Library programs that promote civic engagement and inclusion. The Foundation is committed to ensuring all communities understand the Library is free and open and that everyone should feel welcome and comfortable at the Library. This is especially true of the LGBTQ+ community and is a priority as we celebrate San Diego Pride and honor the rich heritage, cultures, experiences, contributions, and resilience of LGBTQ+ communities.
The Library’s LGBTQIA Library Services Committee assists with programming resources and ideas. The Committee is comprised of a dedicated team of library staff and collaborates with local LGBTQ+ serving community organizations to better serve and connect with our LGBTQ+ community through welcoming and inclusive services.
This year, the Library is offering virtual programming through our PRIDE Facebook page, which features LGBTQ+ themed read alouds, book reviews, Pride maker activities, educational resources, and more!
In collaboration with SD Pride and with support from the San Diego Friends of the Library, the Library held a community contest for the design of this year’s PRIDE Library Card. The winning design will be announced in July and the special-edition PRIDE design library card will be available for free during San Diego Pride week and while supplies last at any of the San Diego Public Library locations offering services.
The Library will also join community partners participating in the Resilient Community March on Sunday, July 11, marching proudly to represent the library in support our San Diego LGBTQ+ community.
With Library Foundation support and in collaboration with the Library Foundation’s Library Shop, the Library will relaunch in-person programming with pop-up Pride storytimes at four branches in July (details are HERE). PRIDE Storytime is a family-friendly way to recognize and celebrate our diversity and individuality through age-appropriate stories and songs. SDPL has partnered with local BIPOC Drag Queens to promote literacy in these fun and engaging inclusive programs. Attendees will receive free PRIDE activity kits to take home and will be able to visit the Library Shop’s PRIDE-themed Pop-Up Shop.
Later this year, Library Foundation, and its Library Shop will present a virtual screening of the documentary short film, Las Reinas De Los Cuentos. The film features San Diego Latinx drag queen activist couple Barbie Q and Raquel Ita. They use storytelling to educate and empower children and inspire a love of reading while teaching lessons about building an equally diverse and inclusive society.
The Library and Foundation will screen the documentary Las Reinas De Los Cuentos featuring the Latinx drag queen activist couple Barbie Q and Raquel Ita later this year.
The San Diego Public Library and the Library Foundation continue to pledge solidarity with our LGBTQ+ communities and are committed to bringing awareness and providing equitable opportunities & resources.
Contact at LGBTQIALibrary@sandiego.gov.
Webpage: Celebrate LGBTQIA+ Pride at the San Diego Public Library!
Facebook: SDPL PRIDE
