Celebrate Pride Month at Brooklyn Public Library

This post was written by Angela Phuong, who is completing a marketing internship at Brooklyn Public Library.

At Brooklyn Public Library, Pride Month is more than just a celebration; it's a space for reflection, creativity and community. This June, we're proud to offer a vibrant lineup of programs for adults that explore queer history, uplift LGBTQ+ voices, and invite Brooklynites to connect through writing, film, storytelling and more.

Whether you want to write, sing, craft or simply sit back and watch a classic film, there is something waiting for you at a branch (or on your screen) nearly every day. Take note of these standout events and celebrate Pride at the Library! 

Words As Resistance: Writing with Audre Lorde

This year, BPL is offering two unique writing workshops inspired by the works of Audre Lorde.

In Exploring Audre Lorde’s Sister Outsider, a four-part writing workshop, participants will engage with selected essays from Lorde’s collection and reflect on their continued relevance today. These workshops are standalones, so come join us at one session or attend all four!

Do you prefer to write with other people? Artist Chyna Cassell leads Audre Lorde: Creative Writing Workshop at Clinton Hill Library, where participants can respond to Lorde’s work and share their own. No prior writing experience is necessary; just bring your voice and we'll supply the rest.

Stories & Celebrations

If storytelling is your thing, don't miss the Short Story Discussion Group on June 27 at Central Library, where readers will discuss “When You Grow to Adultery” by David Leavitt. Come ready to share your thoughts or just listen in!

And, of course, Pride doesn't end in June. On July 1, participants can meet fellow readers at a discussion of DEED by torrin a. greathouse, winner of the 2025 Stonewall Award for poetry. 

From the Archives to the Ballroom

On June 17, go behind the scenes of queer history at Opening the Archives: Finding LGBTQ+ History in the CBH Collections. Hugh Ryan, author of When Brooklyn Was Queer, and CBH archivist Dee Bowers will guide you on the fascinating research behind Ryan’s book, including original materials from the Center for Brooklyn History’s archives.

Then on June 23, you're invited to a special screening of The Ball at Central Library’s Dweck Center. This documentary is narrated by ballroom legend Jack Mizrahi Gucci and dives into the roots and influence of New York City’s ballroom scene. After the screening, participants can enjoy a post-film conversation with director Malgorzata Saniewska.

Pride on the Big Screen

Throughout June, BPL is honoring queer cinema with movie matinees at branches across Brooklyn.

• June 13, Clarendon Library: To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar. This is a classic road trip comedy featuring Patrick Swayze, Wesley Snipes, and John Leguizamo as three unforgettable drag queens.
   
• June 20, Saratoga Library: The Gospel According to André. This movie shows the life of fashion icon André Leon Talley.
   
• June 27, Saratoga Library: Paris Is Burning. This documentary highlights the vibrant drag ball scene.
   

Plan Your Month

All events are free and most require registration—browse the full lineup of events on our calendar. From craft sessions and writing circles to tech workshops and performances, there truly is something for everyone. Whether you're finding your voice through Audre Lorde or dancing to the echoes of ballroom culture, BPL is here to celebrate every story and every identity.