Tween LGBTQ+ Book Club

by Yoli, Marmalade Branch

​If you haven't heard yet about our newest book club, now's your chance! The Tween LGBTQ+ Book Club meets virtually, hosted by librarians from Sweet Branch and Marmalade Branch libraries. This book club is an inclusive, safe, monthly hangout for LGBTQ+ youth and allies. The club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 4:30pm. Tweens and Teens are welcome. Our next meeting is December 15. Join us here. 

We know what you are thinking. “I’m already tired of Zoom school, I’m not really sure I want to read more books.” Well, we totally understand that! That’s why we have put together a care package (you can request here) that includes a craft and treat, plus a copy of the book or graphic novel you will get to keep! (while supplies last). We hope to spread some light and cheer during these difficult pandemic times. ​
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We think there will be some great conversations sparked by the contents of the care package. A conversation might go something like this: 

Person 1:  Okay, so what did you think about the Box of Boogers (candy)? What are these librarians thinking! 
Person 2:  Uh...I was skeptical at first, but sour candy is my jam, so I ate them. Not bad. What did you make with your perler beads? 
Person 1:  I made Garnet from Steven Universe.
Person 2:  I made Peridot!
Person 3:  I made a rainbow and made it into a pin! 
Person 2:  Eek! Show me! Oh cool! What did you do with your string of lights?
Person 1:  I wrapped them inside a mason jar. 
Person 3:  Okay, if you were a tea dragon, what kind of tea dragon would you be?
Person 2:  Definitely a peppermint Tea Dragon, since peppermint is my favorite tea. 
Person 3:  I like this Hibiscus because it is chonk. Super cuuuuute!
Person 1:  Okay, what did you notice about the LGBTQ representation in this book? 
Person 2:  There was soooo much representation. Let’s discuss. 

At its heart, this club is about promoting reading, and affirming LGBTQ+ identities. I know that reading books about characters that I personally identify with has been such a positive experience for me, and I also enjoy reading books about people who are different from me. I love that The City Library has such a good selection of books written by LGBTQ+ authors. We built this reading list for the club and it will be updated constantly. I hope to see you at the next club meeting! Thanks for reading! 
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Care package from November, including perler bead crafts, snacks, and The Tea Dragon Society by Katie O’Neill