Tarpey-Schwed LGBT Families Children’s Book Collection

The Tarpey-Schwed LGBT Families Children’s Book Collection documents the emergence and evolution of children’s literature featuring families with one or more LGBT parents or family members.

Spanning 1969 to 2023, the collection brings together pioneering titles, many of which were published by independent and feminist presses, that were among the first to portray gay, lesbian, and other LGBTQ-headed families in age-appropriate stories.

This focused collection provides researchers, educators, and readers with a unique lens on the intersection of family representation, childhood development, and cultural shifts in publishing and society.

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Books in the collection are available for in-library use by researchers and Mechanics' Institute members. Fill out the form below to inquire about access.

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Tarpey-Schwed LGBT Families Children’s Book Collection

Explore the Collection

Access the Collection

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