Pride Reading Lists

The Berkeley Unified School District is committed to providing and fostering an educational environment that is safe and welcoming, regardless of sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or gender expression. On June 2, 2021, BUSD reaffirmed this commitment by adopting Resolution 21-041, formally recognizing June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month in our schools.

In a national climate when “don’t say gay” bills are being introduced into state legislatures and an unprecedented number of challenges against books that represent the lives of queer, trans, or gender non-conforming characters have erupted, BUSD libraries remain committed to providing access to books that celebrate and showcase the beautiful diversity of all of our students and families. These reading lists, organized by grade level, include recently published books that affirm and celebrate LGBTQI+ identity and voices, uplift queer history, and foster welcoming inclusion for all students and their families.

For books specifically celebrating, representing, and affirming transgender, non-binary, and gender fluid identities and expression, see this book list.

How do I read these books?

You can get all of these books from the Berkeley Public Library or ask your school librarian! Clicking on the book covers above will take you straight to an e-book available through Sora or, in cases where ebooks are not available, to the Berkeley Public Library catalog, where you can place a physical copy of the book on hold. 

• For Sora ebooks, you will be prompted to log in through Clever. More information on how to access Sora is available here.

• You will need a Berkeley Public Library card to access books through the Berkeley Public Library catalog. If you need a Berkeley Public Library card, click here. 

At a time when so many small businesses are struggling to keep their doors open, we also encourage folks to support our local bookstores: 

Ashay by the Bay, Bandung Books, Eastwind Books, Marcus Books, Mrs. Dalloways, Moe’s Books, Mr. Mopps, Books Inc., Pegasus Books and Mrs. Dalloways.