Welcome to Out on the Shelf

A Safe Space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community in Guelph and Wellington County

Image of books on shelves
Image of people working on crafts
Image of OOTS volunteers at Pride in the Park
Image of Out on the Shelf space, computer and books with pride flag

What we offer

At Out on the Shelf, we celebrate diversity and inclusion through our rich collection of resources. Our library offers books, films, and materials that reflect the vibrant 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Whether youʼre seeking knowledge, inspiration, or connection, our resources empower you to explore your identity and engage with others. Join us in building a brighter, more inclusive future together!

01

Library

Our library is home to books featuring Queer stories. From fiction to non-fiction, youth to senior, you can view our collection during our drop-in hours. Books and resources for all ages are available.

02

Programs and Events

Out on the Shelf runs regular programming through our incredible volunteers, staff, and collaborations.

03

Education and Resources

Do you have questions? Looking for resources? Want us to come speak to you? We can do that! Reach out to us to connect.

Empower the community

Make a Donation

Out on the Shelf is made possible by donations from our community. Please consider donating!

About Us

The idea for Out on the Shelf began in 1997 and a planning committee arose. They decided the foundation for the community centre would be books. Our doors first opened October 20, 2005 and since has grown to include to programmes, education, resources, and more…

Stay Connected with Us

Connect with Us

Have questions for the Out on the Shelf team?

info@outontheshelf.com

Land Acknowledgement

Out on the Shelf occupies space on the unceded traditional territory of many Indigenous communities but more specifically the Attiwonderonk, and the Haudenosaunee. This land is held as treaty lands under No.3 Treaty (1792). This land belongs to those of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations. Guelph lies directly adjacent to the Haldimand Tract and is part of a long-established traditional hunting ground for the Six Nations of the Grand River. The community of the Mississaugas of the Credit has survived hundreds of years occupation and culture erasure. We acknowledge the impact of colonialism and that our presence was paved through a system of discriminatory and racist practices. We have a responsibility to this place and it’s peoples’ histories, rights and presence. At out on the Shelf we recognize that we must reflect, learn and unlearn, and take action We must take part in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls for Actions and promote the need for further action in reconciliation.

To learn more please visit the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation’s wedsite at mncfn.ca

Please check out Anishnabeg Outreach, an organizition that “is an Indigenous-led incorporated non-profit & registered charity dedicated to providing culturally appropriate services that strive to support First Nations, Inuit & Métis (FNIM) in overcoming barriers. ” Please read more at their website https://aocan.org/about-us/ and consider donating if you can.