The Wildcat Library is a grassroots community library. Queer titles --fiction and non-fiction-- make up the bulk of this curated collection. Started by Felix Richter-Addo, a trans man in Oklahoma, the library grew organically out of the local need for breadth and depth in these areas. The library has flexible due dates and no fees whatsoever. Felix expands the collection exclusively with donations and purchases from independent bookstores, acknowledging the importance of these small businesses.
Q: Who is your intended audience?
A: Everyone! Plenty of the books exist not just for the queer community, but individuals with family members and friends they would like to understand better, as well as anyone questioning their own identity. Considering that queer people are ourselves and/or our neighbors, this includes you!
Q: How do I support you?
A: The best way to support us is through Patreon, which supplements our monthly book budget. The Kofi/Cashapp/Venmo donations also are very helpful. (All of those options are linked above under "Support".) Other than that, just using the library!
Q: Do you take book donations?
A: Yes! As long as you're okay with us checking them for good fit first, we would be happy to. Just please don't offload unwanted books on us; we want books that you like!
Q: I want to check a book out but my schedule is busy, what do I do?
A: Just let Felix know by email and he will leave it at Gray Owl Coffeeshop for you to pick up.
Q: A book I want is checked out! Can I place a hold?
A: Just follow the same steps for checking out a book and Felix will take care of putting that on hold for you. If the budget allows, he will probably also order another copy so you don't have to wait.
Q: Why "Wildcat" Library?
A: The name references the concept of "wildcat strikes." A wildcat strike is when workers strike without being authorized to do so by their union. Felix feels that the Wildcat Library is an "unauthorized" library of sorts. We already see many instances of music, TV, and movies where sharing is considered piracy. When (not if) book bans come for our public libraries, who will provide the same services, and how? The name encourages thought, and hopefully inspires "copycat" libraries to cover more communities.
Q: I love the idea! How do I start a library like this?
A: Thank you so much for considering it! Please contact Felix at info@wildcatlibrary.net and he will provide every bit of advice he can offer.