Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is launching its very first Drag Queen Story Hour on August 26 at CLP – Allegheny!

Drag Queen Story Hour is a family-friendly series of programs that was was developed in response to area families who’ve expressed an interest in programs that amplify broad perspectives, challenge gender stereotypes and embrace personal expression and self-acceptance. Pittsburgh is joining ranks with several other cities who have already deputized drag performers as honorary librarians, bringing a unique brand of unabashed self-confidence and storytelling to the library and creating an opportunity for kids and families to interact with queer role models.

To celebrate this fabulous new program, we are sharing a few titles for all ages that reflect what Drag Queen Story Hour is all about — these picks celebrate gender expression and promote themes of respect, diversity, creativity, self-confidence and dignity.

Titles for Adults

• Why Drag? – After more than a decade of photographing drag stars around the globe, Magnus Hastings compiled some of his most breath-taking portraiture in this book, along with brief interviews with each of the performers who explain their interest in and interpretation of the art form.
• Workin’ It! RuPaul’s Guide to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Style – If you have already burned your way through every season of Drag Race, read this playful guide for some lively mentorship from Ru.
• The Gender Creative Child: Pathways for Nurturing and Supporting Children Who Live Outside Gender Boxes – Gender nonconformity isn’t just for adults. Parents, caregivers and mentors who want to take an active role in supporting the development of a healthy gender identity should check out this title.

Titles for Teens

• Queer, There, and Everywhere – This compendium of positive queer role models and history-makers is great for teens and adults alike.
• Being Jazz – My Life as a Transgender Teen – Teen activist and trailblazer Jazz Jennings shares her very public journey as she inspires people to accept the differences in others while they embrace their own truths.
• The Gender Quest Workbook: A Guide for Teens and Young Adults Exploring Gender Identity – This interactive workbook includes evidence-based activities, exercises and resources for young people who are interested in delving into their ideas about gender identity and expression.

Titles for Children

• I Like Myself – High on energy and imagination, this ode to self-esteem encourages kids to appreciate everything about themselves, inside and out. Messy hair? Beaver breath? So what! Here’s a little girl who knows what really matters.
• This Day in June –A vibrant, joyful celebration of community and identity is reflected in this beautiful picture book. Included is a reading guide full of facts and information about Pride and a parents’ guide to supporting self-expression and confidence in children of all ages.
• Red: A Crayon’s Story – Red, a crayon with the wrong label, tries to do what the others expect of him, but there is something different about Red. Finally, a new friend comes along who can see who he actually is. This story about acceptance, self-discovery and confidence is sure to delight young readers.

No matter what your age, I hope you will find resources to affirm and celebrate your identity at the Library!

-Ginny and Caitie

Caitie is the Lead Librarian Supervisor of Children’s and Teen Services at CLP-Allegheny. She loves graphic memoirs, making tiny hats for her cat, hiking and Indian food.

Ginny is a baker of treats, reader of fiction and Coordinator of Volunteer Services based out of the Office of Programs and Partnerships at CLP – East Liberty. She wants to pet your dog.