Aesop's Queer Library pop-up returns to Soho

The Aesop Queer Library will return to Aesop's Soho store from 28 June - 5 July to mark 50 years of Pride marches in the UK.

Following similar gestures in America and London last year, the LGBTQ+ library has come to London again with the shelves of Aesop Soho cleared of products to make way for 50 titles by queer authors and allies from around the world.

As a way of supporting independent business, books were purchased from Gay’s The Word, the oldest queer bookstore in the UK. Long-time literary partner Penguin Random House has also made a donation.

Guided by the recommendations of Aesop’s bibliophiles, visitors will be able to collect a complimentary book of their choice, with no purchase required.

Queer Libraries will also appear in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Berlin, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Taipei later this year, focusing on the theme of "a story shared, a new chapter carved", exploring how the act of sharing queer experiences can help carve out new chapters for queer representation and empowerment.

Stores around the world will also play host to discussions and specially commissioned artworks by LGBTQ+ artists. Paul Mendez, Sharan Dhaliwal and Travis Alabanza will share their thoughts on queer representation through author interviews online and an in-store event, whilst illustrations by queer artist Hayley Wall will be showcased both digitally and in-store.

Furthermore, a city guide featuring recommendations of LGBTQIA+ spaces and experiences in each city will be available both online and in-store.