Aesop has expanded its annual Queer Library initiative with events across London and Brighton, transforming its retail stores into literary spaces that celebrate LGBTQIA+ voices and improve public access to queer literature.
The sixth edition, titled “Body of Work,” runs at Aesop Soho from July 3 to 5. Additionally, the programme includes a simultaneous Reading Room at Aesop Spitalfields and a second Reading Room at Aesop Brighton from July 31 to August 2.
Switchboard partnership takes centre stage
This year’s initiative highlights Switchboard, the UK’s national LGBTQIA+ support line, which has operated as a volunteer-led helpline since 1974 and has supported around four million people over the past five decades.
The featured publication, The Log Books, by Tash Walker and Adam Zmith, draws on archived call logs discovered at Switchboard’s offices, documenting four decades of conversations and experiences within the UK’s LGBTQIA+ community.
Walker and Zmith said: “we knew them, and finally we could hold each other against the tides of time.”
Retail spaces transformed into public libraries
During the event, Aesop Soho replaces its product displays with books, while dedicated reading spaces at the Spitalfields and Brighton stores showcase the full collection of featured titles.
Additionally, visitors to all three locations can receive one complimentary book without making a purchase, subject to availability.
The initiative also extends beyond the in-store experience through charitable support. The Aesop Foundation will make donations to Switchboard and Not a Phase, a UK charity supporting the trans+ community.
Event locations
Aesop Queer Library – Soho
Aesop Soho
41 Lexington Street
London W1F 9AJ
United Kingdom
Aesop Queer Reading Room – Spitalfields
Aesop Spitalfields
75–77 Brushfield Street
London E1 6AA
United Kingdom
Aesop Queer Reading Room – Brighton
104–105 Gloucester Road
Brighton BN1 4AP
United Kingdom