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Celebrating Pride at Nottingham City Libraries

At Nottingham City Libraries, we believe everyone should feel welcome, represented and able to be themselves.

Over the last few years, we have been proud to work with local artists, authors, historians and community groups to bring a wide range of LGBTQ+ events to our libraries. From talks and book launches to music, workshops and family activities, these events have helped people connect, learn and share their stories.

One highlight was welcoming Nottingham-born singer-songwriter Rob Green to Central Library as part of our Sound at Central programme. We have also hosted inspiring author talks, including Eleanor Medhurst, who joined us to discuss the history of lesbian fashion and how clothing can help people express who they are.

Our partnership with Queer the Shelves Literature Festival has brought writers and creatives from across the UK and beyond to Nottingham. Through talks, readings and workshops, the festival has created opportunities for people to discover new books and hear different voices.

We have also enjoyed working with local organisations including Niche Artefact, Queer Up Duck!, Global Wordsmiths, Write Queer, Five Leaves Bookshop and the Notts Queer History Archive. Together, we have celebrated local talent, explored Nottingham’s queer history and given people the chance to get creative through writing, art and zine-making.

Our libraries have welcomed family events too. During Queer Up Duck! Festival, children and families joined award-winning author Olly Pike for stories, crafts and activities celebrating kindness, creativity and inclusion.

We have also been delighted to host local authors including Thom Seddon, as well as launches for Queer Nottingham, which shares the stories and experiences of Nottingham’s LGBTQ+ communities.

Perhaps most importantly, these events have brought people together. They have created spaces to learn something new, meet others, celebrate local culture and feel part of a community.

Thank you to everyone who has attended an event, shared a story, performed, asked a question, picked up a book or supported a project. We are looking forward to many more opportunities to celebrate LGBTQ+ history, creativity and communities in our libraries.

Keep an eye on our website and social media channels to find out what’s coming next. 🌈📚