The Wildcat Library is a grassroots "queer" library housed in Gray Owl Coffeeshop in Norman, OK. TQIA+ titles --fiction and non-fiction-- make up the bulk of this curated collection. The library was started by Felix Richter-Addo (that's me!) and grew organically out of the local need for breadth and depth in these areas. The library has flexible due dates and no fees. I expand the collection exclusively with donations and purchases from independent bookstores, acknowledging the importance of these small businesses.
Q: What's "TQIA+"?
A: Trans, Queer, Intersex, Asexual/Aromantic, and other identities! (Such as gay, lesbian, bisexual.)
Why not "LGBT"/"LGBTQ"/"LGBTQ+"/[other initialism]?
Too many LGBTQ+ libraries focus only on the "LGB", especially if they're older collections. This is a trans-friendly space so the T comes first to broadcast that. Additionally, it describes the focus of the collection well. There are collections out there that cover LGB topics extensively. I'm not interested in trying to catch up to that, but moreso making sure the less represented are present in this collection.
Q: Who is your intended audience?
A: Everyone! For allies, there are plenty of materials to understand the TQIA+ community better. There is also plenty of informative and entertaining content for the community.
Q: How do I support you?
A: The best way to support me 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 me checking them for good fit first, I would be happy to. Just please don't offload unwanted books on me; I want books that you like!
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. The Wildcat Library is an "unauthorized" library, playfully. 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 me (Felix!) at info@wildcatlibrary.net and I will provide every bit of advice I can offer.