Giovanni's Room

Queer bookshop · Philadelphia Gayborhood

Queer and feminist bookshop on the corner of 12th and Pine Street since 1973, by its own account the oldest still operating of its kind in the USA. Today it belongs to Philly AIDS Thrift, and proceeds support people with HIV/AIDS.

• Since 1973
• Book club

Address

345 S 12th St
19107 Philadelphia

Opening hours

Mon–Sat 11 am–8 pm
Sun 11 am–7 pm

Crowd

Queer readers, locals and visitors

Programme

Philly Queer Book Club on the first Thursday of the month at 6 pm, readings and theme nights

Location

Southern edge of the Gayborhood

What makes Giovanni’s Room special

Giovanni’s Room is an institution of queer book culture in the USA. The range runs from new queer literature to second-hand books that come in via Philly AIDS Thrift. When you buy, you support HIV/AIDS services in the city. Regular readings and the monthly book club make the shop a meeting place.

Contact

Editorially researched, as of October 2026. Sources: own website (current opening hours and events), Out x Out. Opening hours, prices and programme may change, please check before visiting.