Episode Details

In this episode:

• What The QT Library is: a queer/trans-authored and curated collection + a welcoming, physical community space in Boston
• The mission: no book bans, more belonging—and a library that feels like warmth, whimsy, and joy
• Why libraries matter: “you already know what a library is” — and that familiarity makes access easier
• A Boston reality check: expensive city, limited space… and the need for free, shared community infrastructure
• Intergenerational magic: creating a space where queer youth and queer elders connect naturally
• Virtual programming stays: the QT Library’s online events are thriving—and they’ll continue even after a physical opening
• Community-built from scratch: the surprising range of ways people have contributed (from marketing plans to plastic book covers)
• What Jake’s learned about community:
• you will mess up—values + repair matter
• everyone’s interesting if you ask better questions
• gratitude is a culture-builder (the Monday Meeting gratitude tradition)
• Why “substance-free” matters: expanding access beyond bars/clubs—especially for youth, families, and anyone who wants community without alcohol
• Boston’s volunteer spirit: how the city’s service culture could help power the library forward
• Reality check: this is not “a few books on a shelf”—it’s a growing, organized, legit operation
• The goal: Jake’s dream to open a physical space in summer 2026
• How you can help: donate, volunteer, share the project, spread the word

Learn more / Donate / Volunteer: https://www.qtlibrary.org/

Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com 

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ

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