10 most unique LGBTQ+ bookstores in the United States

Fabulosa, San Francisco’s colorful LGBTQ+ bookstore in the historic Castro district, welcomes book lovers of all ages, races, and creeds. With a colorful, casual vibe and walls filled with David Bowie posters, this LGBTQ+-owned gem has a fantastic selection, from best-sellers to rare finds, and everything in-between. The bonus? They’re trans-friendly, and with their BOOKS NOT BANS initiative, you can contribute to a great cause while shopping.

In these touch-starved times, we could all use a little more romance in our lives. If you’re nodding along, saying “YES!!!”, then the Ripped Bodice in Los Angeles (Culver City, specifically), is among the LGBTQ+ bookstores you HAVE to visit. It’s trans-owned and specializes in steamy, scandalous romance reads. This indie bookseller frequently hosts book clubs and parties for new releases, making it the perfect place to get your hands on some queer lit or, let’s be honest, some spicy smut.

Among the swaying palm trees and sunny skies is Tombolo Books in St. Petersburg, Florida. With wall-to-wall books, it’s a place that welcomes folks of all ages, orientations, genders, and backgrounds with open arms. (Surprising, considering Florida’s harsh anti-trans laws.) Regardless, what’s really cool is the mix of ownership here. LGBTQ+ and straight folks teaming up. Together, as allies, they’ve crafted an inclusive and diverse bookstore where everyone can discover amazing literature.

With over four decades in business, the historic Unabridged Bookstore proudly served the Chicago LGBTQ+ community with its warm and welcoming atmosphere. (That is, by Chicagoan standards.) Unabridged is known for its dedication to its authors and personalized book recommendations to patrons. They’re also a must-visit for LGBTQ+ travel guides. One GayCities reviewer mentions, “Plan your next trip AFTER you check out all the travel books downstairs. You just may end up discovering a whole new world!”

Once housed in a classic Victorian New Orleans-style home, this cute, queer-owned shop recently went mobile. However, it’s still a crucial ally in the fight for justice and equality. (Catch their rotating shop schedule here.) Tubby & Coo’s dedicated efforts for supporting BIPOC communities helps give power to multiple marginalized populations within NOLA. How do they do it? Owner Candice Huber takes calculated steps, like as promoting antiracist and pro-queer materials front and center.

Left Bank Books has been a vibrant part of the St. Louis LGBTQ+ community for over 50 years. We love this LGBTQ+ bookstore because it’s deeply rooted in “the family”, supporting locals with their River City Readers Program, which gives books to underprivileged children. Plus, there’s always something happening here! With 300+ events each year, from book clubs, including the Gay Men’s Reading Group and Lesbian Reading Group, to poetry readings, there’s something for everyone.

No, you’re not seeing double! The Ripped Bodice is on our list twice. But, this time, the spotlight is on its funky and fun New York location. Same awesome inclusive chain, just with a Brooklyn accent.

In the heart of New York City, one of the most unique LGBTQ+ bookstores awaits: the Bureau of General Services—Queer Division. Founded by lovebirds Donnie Jochum and Greg Newton in 2012, this LGBTQ+ cultural center is an essential stop for anyone seeking an extraordinarily gay bookish experience in the Big Apple. The Bureau offers a diverse collection of books, publications, and art and has a calendar packed with events, from readings and performances to film screenings and workshops.

Absolutely dripping in Portland vibes, Bishop & Wilde isn’t just a place for books; it’s a unique neighborhood hub that offers everything from new and used reads to plants, records, gifts, and art. Precisely why it made our list of the coolest LGBTQ+ bookstores! According to owners Melissa Amstutz and Tyler Dolan, this queer-friendly space embodies LGBTQ+ culture and values. It’s not just a bookstore; “it’s a community space.”

Firestorm Books in Asheville is an inspiring crossing of small-town culture, coffee, and feminism. With a worker-owned, anti-capitalist ethos, it’s the place to enjoy a “damn fine cup of coffee” while supporting local, progressive ideals. Run by an LGBTQ+ feminist collective, Firestorm Books focuses on marginalized communities in the commonly right-winged South Appalachian region, offering a sober and anti-oppressive space where you can sip your latte and stir up your radical agenda.

Talk about a piece of history! Founded in 1973, Giovanni’s Room is the oldest LGBTQ+ bookstore in the country. Its iconic storefront is considered a launching pad for queer literature and a hub for renowned gay authors in Philadelphia and beyond. After a brief closure in 2014, it was revived by Philly AIDS Thrift, now known as Philly AIDS Thrift@ Giovanni’s Room. Today, the bookstore continues to offer a wide selection of LGBTQ+ books, clothing, and more while also supporting the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Salt Lake City ranks among America’s top 10 queerest cities. Yet, queer-specific and all-ages accessible LGBTQ+ bookstores (among other things) are hard to find! Under the Umbrella Bookstore is changing that with its shelves overflowing with gay literature. The store also provides a range of resources for community engagement, including a gender-affirming closet and events like drag queen story hours, open mic nights, queer tarot readings, and book clubs, making it an epicenter for the LGBTQ+ community in SLC.

Texas is historically resistant to embracing women, trans individuals, and LGBTQ+ folks. Still, BookWoman is a beacon of inclusivity and representation in the Lone Star State. Originally known as The Common Woman Bookstore Collective, it has championed feminist, lesbian, and women-focused literature in Texas. This Austin gem is not just a unique LGBTQ+ bookstore, but a hardy part of the LGBTQ+ and feminist community, promoting empowerment, diversity, and the written voices of women.

A Room of One’s Own, unquestionably one of the coolest LGBTQ+ bookstores in Wisconsin, has been dishing out feminist and LGBTQ+ literature since 1975. Plus, the friendly folks here aren’t just booksellers. And they’ve got a big heart, supporting organizations like Wisconsin Books to Prisoners, Madison Reading Project, Arts + Literature Lab’s Queer Youth Book Club ALL, and Goodman Community Center’s Transition Academy.