Books Not Bans

a tiny org that sends free boxes of our favorite queer & banned books to folks who need them the most - for free

Books Not Bans and PFLAG SF are working with local bookstores and volunteers to gather 1100 books for PFLAG chapters all over the country to expand access to LGBT, BIPOC, and banned books. We are thrilled to be working with this important and impactful organization on this exciting endeavor. To support this effort:

  • Donate at the button on the right! Specify that your donation is for the PFLAG book drive.

  • Purchase books at any of the local bookstores participating in this effort. So far, Booksmith, Fabulosa Books, Noe Valley Books, Books on the Park and Dog Eared Books are all partnering with us.

  • Volunteer to support this project by filling out the volunteer form on this website.

Fiction teaches us to dream. If we can imagine a better world, we can build it.

We are fiscally sponsored by Oasis Arts. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Books Not Bans builds community around literature and ideas

Good books and stories have the power to foster connection, resilience, and empathy.

We believe that literature belongs not only at quiet, cozy enclaves, but also at raucously ebullient social gatherings where participants can revel in the transformative power of the printed word.

We have worked with independent bookstores, cultural institutions and community groups in San Francisco.

We’ve hosted group bike rides to bookstores, reading happy hours, book-themed drag shows, book packing parties, and late night dance party /read-a-thons. We’ve collaborated with local bookstores, museums, nightclubs and nonprofits.

Good books can be an impetus for experiences built on empathy and imagination.

In our first year, Books Not Bans has sent over 1000 books.

We've sent books to over 25 organizations in 16 states including youth groups, high schools, rural Pride organizations, bookmobiles in rural areas, universities, drag story hours, youth centers, LGBT centers, queer book clubs, and community centers.

Most of America has no access to queer and banned books. We send new copies of popular and classic books to folks who live in places that are impacted by book bans and where diverse titles are not readily available.

100% of donations are used to purchase and send books to communities who neeed them.