The Bellingham Public Library celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride in June. As always, Library staff have great recommendations for books, dvds and music for all ages.
Books for Adults
From biographies and memoirs to fiction written by LGBTQ authors or featuring LGBTQ characters, you can look forward to some great reading this month! Library staff are happy to help you find what you’re looking for on our shelves or from another location. Visit us during the month of June and explore the Pride related materials on display or browse from the lists below from home!
Adult Nonfiction
Library Staff Recommend:
Before We Were Trans: A New History of Gender by Kit Heyem
“Kit Heyem lays the groundwork for an important conversation on examining the ways in which we view gender historically.”
– Arbor, Public Services Clerk
Beyond the Throne: Epic Journeys, Enduring Friendships, and Surprising Tales by Kristian Nairn
“Loved Nairn’s stories about the underground drag and gay club scene in Belfast in the 1980s and 90s.”
– Arbor, Public Services Clerk
The Collected Poems of Audre Lorde by Audre Lorde
“Audre Lorde— Black Feminist, proud lesbian, civil rights activist, and more— wrote many beautiful poems, all collected in this volume.”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
The Essential Dykes To Watch Out For by Alison Bechdel
“Alison Bechdel’s comic strip was one of the earliest ongoing depictions of lesbians in popular culture. Her other graphic novels, Fun Home and Are You My Mother? are also worth a read!”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
Harvey Milk: His Lives and Death by Lillian Faderman
“Harvey Milk was the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California. His story is inspiring and tragic – I urge you to know it.”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
The Hidden Case of Ewan Forbes by Zoe-Jane Playdon
“This thoroughly researched, landmark moment in Scottish court history was hidden for decades as to not attract any negative media attention. It’s a story of trans survival and resistance, and only could be told because of the author’s meticulous digging for information.”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
“An impactful collection of poetry from a fantastic poet, drawing on Smith’s experiences as a Black, Non-Binary, Queer person. Homie hits hard and rings loud with Smith’s voice; a magnificent celebration of community, and the saving power of friendship.”
– Rosalie, Public Services Clerk
“The master of the spectacle highlights some of the wonkiest people who shaped him. It’s a hoot!”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
Transitions: A Mother’s Journey by Élodie Durand
“An important and thoughtful memoir for any family member of a trans kid.”
– Arbor, Public Services Clerk
Adult Fiction
Library Staff Recommend:
Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle
“Satire and horror mix in this surreal but poignantly relevant story of Hollywood’s relationship to queer media.”
– Arbor, Public Services Clerk
Enter the Aardvark by Jessica Anthony
“A must-read satire for politically conscious queers, zoology nerds, and other rare breeds. Jessica Anthony’s Enter the Aardvark blends mystery, romance, adventure and a hint of the supernatural, with a playful tone and loving reverence for the weird.”
– Jett, Security and Information Attendant
Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin
“I really recommend anything by Baldwin, but this is a short, tumultuous starting place. His prose will stun you.”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
She Loves to Cook and She Loves to Eat by Sakaomi Yuzaki
“This series is SO cute and SO cozy! I love the characters so much, and all the food looks so delicious (you’re going to be hungry reading this series). I also love how the story incorporates some heavier topics (misogyny, toxic family culture, etc.) without losing any of its’ fluffiness.”
– Lorena, Public Services Clerk
Voyage of the Damned by Frances White
“Death on the Nile but queer and fantastical.”
– Arbor, Public Services Clerk
Books for Teens
Our Teen Libriarian has put together YA book lists of both fiction and nonfiction, centered around this month’s PRIDE theme. Check them out!
LGBTQIA Fiction for Young Adults
LGBTQIA Nonfiction for Young Adults
Library Staff Recommend:
Girls like Girls by Hayley Kiyoko
“A tender high school romance set in the early 2000s that’s going to be highly relatable for any sapphic millennial.” Recommended for ages 14 and up
– Arbor, Public Services Clerk
The Guy She Was Interested In Wasn’t a Guy at All by Sumiko Arai
“From the moment she meets the hot, mysterious cashier at her local music store, Aya is crushing hard. He’s nice, he’s kinda punk, and best of all—he has the same music taste as her! Little does she know that the guy who’s stolen her heart is actually the girl at the next desk over in school. And shy, awkward Mitsuki knows exactly who Aya is really crushing on, because she’s heard every single lovesick word. A super funny, amazingly sweet manga that took the internet (and my heart) by storm!” Recommended for ages 16 and up
– Rosalie, Public Services Clerk
“Mars is drawn into the secretive world of their sister Caroline’s alluring friends, who may hold the key to her death. The Honeys is a horror story full of poetry and fluid personas, teen angst and lots of bees. And Mars – relatable, clever, and ultimately ruthless – is the perfect guide into the sweet, sweet darkness.” Recommended for ages 16 and up
– Karen, Public Services Clerk
“This was a really good representation of how frustrating it can be figuring out that you’re ace in a society that just seems to be obsessed with dating and sex. The story also illustrates very well how internalizing this societal obsession, without fully understanding your own inclinations (or lack thereof), can be confusing, harmful, and sometimes even a little ridiculous.” Recommended for ages 16 and up
– Lorena, Public Services Clerk
The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich by Deya Muniz
“Adorable. Delightful. I loved every second of this book. They’re so sweet. I love them! And the food puns are top notch.” Recommended for ages 14 and up
– Lorena, Public Services Clerk
“Magical realism blends into our main character’s creative process while she learns to process her emotions about her best friend’s mental health struggles.” Recommended for ages 14 and up
– Arbor, Public Services Clerk
Books for Children
So many great books to read and stories to hear! Visit the Children’s Department at the Bellingham Public Library to find these great titles and more.
Library Staff Recommend:
It Feels Good to Be Yourself written by Theresa Thorn, illustrated by Noah Grigni
“This book is a beautiful and informative celebration of the never-ending number of ways to be yourself in the world.” Recommended for ages 3+
-Ali, Children’s Librarian
‘A middle-grade novel about a nonbinary 11-year-old facing challenges at a new school, where they are forced to choose between a boys’ or girls’ homeroom. With warmth and clarity, the book explores gender, inclusion, and the importance of being seen for who you truly are.” Recommended for ages 8-12
– Kian, Library Assistant
Lunar Boy by Jes and Cin Wibowo
“There are so many emotions that come with being the new kid, but even more so when you move in with a new blended family and are struggling with identity and culture. I loved the art and that it is a story we can all relate to – belonging and feeling comfortable in our community.” Recommended for ages 10 and up.
– Bernice, Children’s Librarian
Pride: An Inspirational History of the LGBTQ+ Movement by Stella Caldwell
“Vivid, and bold, Pride is an excellent resource for kids, covering the history of both persecution and celebration that surrounds the varied LGBTQ+ identities in the world. From the ancient world to modern day, Caldwell touches on the events that shaped the history of pride, the lives of historically important queer community members, as well as bringing in testimony from many other LGBTQ+ people from all walks of life to speak on their own identities and journeys.” Recommended for ages 10 and up
– Rosalie, Public Services Clerk
Prince and Knight by Daniel Haack
“Love seeing the classic trope of royalty and the dashing knight who comes to battle the dragon get flipped on its head. No matter who was under that knight’s helm it was going to be perfect.” Recommended for all ages
– Lorena, Public Services Clerk
A Song for You and I by Kay O’Neill
“In true Kay O’Neill fashion, this story is so soft and emotional. The art style is beautiful and they do such a good job of making you care about both of these characters as they progress on their very different journeys.” Recommended for ages 9 and up
– Lorena, Public Services Clerk
Films and Documentaries Featuring LGBTQ+ Stories
The Bellingham Public Library has a great selection of films to choose from, and also provides access for you to stream films from Kanopy! To find eFilms and eDocumentaries, use your library card to sign up with Kanopy, the Library’s source for free online videos. Access them on your computer, mobile device or TV.
Kanopy has great films centering the LGBTQIA experience for Pride Month. To explore these titles, visit Kanopy Pride Month selections. The Library’s DVD collection also features some fantastic movies that are available for you to browse in person!
Library Staff Recommends:
“Hidden in the rural Catskills, weekend destination Casa Susanna offered much needed privacy to its primarily transgender guests during the mid 1950’s and 60’s. A must-watch!”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
Music
Library Staff Recommends:
“Arca has insane range, and this third album of hers is especially avant-garde, almost outside of time. Her production abilities are unmatched.”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
Set My Heart on Fire Immediately by Perfume Genius
“This album swells with emotion and grand reflections on life and loves. It’s masterfully produced and a treat to listen to.”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
“Ambient musician Claire Rousay explores territory closer to pop in this latest album. Check it out!”
– Audrey, Library Assistant
Local LGBTQ Events
Whatcom Youth Pride Parade and Festival
Saturday, May 31, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Do you identify as a LGBTQIA+ youth in Whatcom County? Or a youth ally? Come march and celebrate!
July 12 & 13, 2025
“Pride IN Bellingham attracts guests from all walks of life and of all ages who come together from Bellingham and across Washington State to celebrate the Pride Movement and LGBTQIA+ rights together.”
LGBTQ+ Resources
PFLAG envisions a world where diversity is celebrated and all people are respected, valued, and affirmed. We are working to make PFLAG Whatcom a haven of unity and acceptance through community collaboration. Because together we are strong.
Washington State LGBTQ Commission
The Washington State LGBTQ Commission works to improve the state’s interface with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit, and intersex community, identify the needs of its members, and ensuring that there is an effective means of advocating for LGBTQ equity in all aspects of state government.
“A Lifeline for LGBTQ youth in crisis”. Providing information and support to LGBTQ youth 24/7, all year round.
