June is Pride Month, a time to recognize the history, achievements and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer communities. At Johnson County Library, patrons can explore that history and discover stories that reflect a wide range of experiences.
Pride Month traces its roots to the Stonewall Uprising in New York City in June 1969, a pivotal event in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. The first Pride march followed one year later on June 28, 1970, and today Pride celebrations around the world include parades, festivals, educational programs and community gatherings.
The iconic rainbow flag, designed by artist and activist Gilbert Baker in 1978, has become a widely recognized symbol of inclusion. Baker was from Parsons, Kansas, and this year Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly signed a proclamation declaring June 2 as Gilbert Baker Day. The flag has undergone several evolutions over the years to be more inclusive. The Progress Pride Flag was designed by Daniel Quasar in 2018.
The Library offers resources to explore LGBTQ+ history and stories. Visitors can browse curated book lists featuring adult fiction and nonfiction, children's and teen titles, graphic novels and memoirs, romances, science fiction and fantasy and historical works. Through Libby, patrons can also access fiction and nonfiction eBooks and audiobooks from anywhere with a Library card.
Digital resources expand on those opportunities. Kanopy features films celebrating LGBTQ+ voices and experiences, while NewsBank provides current and historical coverage of social issues and diversity topics. Researchers can explore LGBTQ+ biographies through Gale Biography, historical ACLU documents, articles in History Reference Source and directories of LGBTQ+ organizations and businesses.
The Library also highlights local history through recorded presentations, including programs on Kansas City’s role in the rise of gay rights and lessons from LGBTQ+ activism across Kansas.
This year, the Library extended community outreach by participating in KC PrideFest for the first time as part of the Johnson County Services booth. Library staff joined colleagues from multiple county departments to connect attendees with services, answer questions and share information about programs and resources.
"By participating in community events like PrideFest, we can reach individuals who may not otherwise walk through our doors and help them discover resources that could have a meaningful impact on their lives," said Branch Operations Manager Stephanie Lazar.
Johnson County Library strives to create accessible spaces where everyone can discover resources and continue learning. As part of this commitment, the Library highlights culturally significant celebrations and observances throughout the year as opportunities for our community to learn, connect and explore new perspectives. Explore Pride Month reading lists, research tools and more at jocolibrary.org.
