In the heart of Philadelphia’s vibrant Gayborhood stands a beacon of LGBTQ+ history and culture: the William Way LGBT Community Center. Among its many contributions, the center proudly houses the nation’s oldest LGBTQ+ lending library, the John J. Wilcox, Jr. Library, established in 1976. This library has been a cornerstone for the community, offering a vast collection of over 14,000 books and DVDs that delve into the diverse lives and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals.

The library’s significance was recently highlighted in a feature by CBS Philadelphia, underscoring its role as a hidden gem within the city. John Anderies, the library’s director, emphasized its unique position in American history, stating, “The center opened in 1976 here in Philadelphia, and one of its first programs was to have a library.” This initiative has provided a safe and inclusive space for individuals to explore LGBTQ+ literature and media, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Staffed by dedicated volunteers, the library operates Monday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., excluding holidays. Volunteer Scott Edwards shared a recent interaction: “Recently, I had someone come in looking for a DVD because they do a monthly movie night with their friends, so they wanted a movie.” Such anecdotes highlight the library’s role in facilitating community engagement and cultural exploration.

Beyond its lending services, the center is home to an extensive archive dedicated to preserving Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ legacy. Anderies elaborated on the archive’s contents: “There’s things like newspapers and periodicals, ephemera, individuals’ personal papers, if they’re, say, a writer or a photographer, whatever they’ve created during their life, or collected over time.” These archives offer invaluable insights into the rich history and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community in Philadelphia.

Volunteer Natalie Manes expressed the depth of the collection: “There’s so much in here that you don’t even know it exists until you come in and look at it.” This sentiment captures the essence of the library and archives as reservoirs of knowledge, waiting to be explored by those eager to connect with their heritage.

The William Way LGBT Community Center continues to serve as a vital resource, offering programs ranging from social groups and counseling services to art exhibitions and cultural experiences. Its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment ensures that the stories and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community are preserved and celebrated for generations to come.

For more information about the center and its offerings, visit their official website.