Spotlight: Queer Silent Book Club
At Silent Book Club, we believe everyone deserves a welcoming space to connect through books, and our incredible queer chapters are shining examples of this mission in action. From Seattle to Chicago, Salem to Denton, these communities are more than just book clubs; they're vital havens of affirmation, connection, and joy. Join us as we shine a spotlight on how these inspiring organizers are creating inclusive spaces where every reader can truly belong.
Queer Silent Book Club Seattle
Queer Silent Book Club Seattle is run by Dani and Ronan: two cat-owning, book-loving best friends. "We want to create a space especially for our community—more than just a safe space: a space for sharing the grief and dread caused by the current administration, a space for building connection over shared identity and a love of reading, and a space for finding ways to celebrate and build up our community."
SBC Chicago, Dorothy Downstairs
Nestled beneath Split-Rail in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village, Dorothy Downstairs is a retro-chic, lesbian cocktail bar that channels 1970s disco flair and cozy nooks—making it the perfect backdrop for connection. In September 2023, the bar launched its monthly Silent Book Club, curated by Charlie Schumann, inviting guests to read in peaceful camaraderie, while dim lights, all-instrumental ambiance, and a rotating donation-based queer bookshelf make it a warm, inclusive home for book lovers.
Queer Silent Book Club Salem
Queer Silent Book Club Salem is one of the many vibrant programs supported by local nonprofit Salem Capital Pride (@salemcapitalpride), with a mission to bring together the local queer community year-round — not just during Pride Month. This chapter also curates monthly booklists focused on queer themes and interests, creating space for members to share recommendations and connect over stories that reflect their lives and identities.
Silent Book Club Denton, Texas
Silent Book Club Denton is bold, welcoming, and joyfully weird — a reflection of the vibrant, eclectic town it calls home. Relaunched in March 2024 by co-hosts Faye and Anna, this chapter was reimagined as a space where queer, neurodivergent, witchy, and introverted folks could come exactly as they are.
Knowing how hard it can be to find safe spaces in Texas, they set out to create more than just a book club: a third place built on affirmation, individuality, and community care. From classic silent reads to wildly creative themed events, SBC Denton proudly lives by its motto — “More than just a book club” — and Denton’s too: “Keep Denton Weird.”