Gay’s The Word

Gay's The Word, nestled in Bloomsbury, London, is a legendary spot in the LGBTQ community. Established in 1979 by a group of gay socialists, it has the distinction of being the UK's oldest LGBT bookshop. What sets this bookstore apart is not just its extensive collection of literature but its rich history and role as a community hub.

In the early days, when gay literature was scarce in mainstream bookstores, Gay's The Word filled a crucial gap by importing a significant portion of its stock from the US. The store has seen its share of challenges, most notably in 1984 when it was wrongly raided by Customs and Excise under the assumption it was a porn store. The charges were eventually dropped in 1986, but this event highlights the store's resilience and the community's support.

More than just a bookstore, Gay's The Word has been a vital community space, hosting various groups and events. It's been featured in the media, including the 2014 film "Pride," which depicts its role in supporting the Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners campaign during the 1984-85 miners' strike.

The store's ethos of reinvesting all profits back into the business and community continues to this day. With a team of passionate booksellers, including manager Jim MacSweeney, who has been with the store since 1989, and deputy manager Uli Lenart, an aficionado of literary fiction and non-fiction, Gay's The Word remains a cornerstone of London's queer community. Whether you're looking for the latest in LGBTQ literature or seeking a space that radiates history and solidarity, Gay's The Word is more than just a bookstore—it's a cultural landmark and a beacon for the community.