Our Story,
At Out on the Shelf (OOTS), we believe in the power of community. Since our doors opened, we have partnered with local organizations to uplift and support the LGBTQIA+ community in Guelph. Together, we create a safe space where everyone can explore, learn, and grow. Our library is a treasure trove of resources, offering everything from books to workshops that celebrate our vibrant identities.
Our roots run deep in Guelph, where we started as a small group of passionate individuals in 1997. In 2003, plans were put into action when a number of social service providers from Guelph-Wellington met to see how they could pool their resources. After planning, the original team decided that the foundation of the OOTS community centre would be books. They wanted this space to be trans-supportive, polyamorous and sex-positive, and inclusive for all. The committee collected books and furniture for two years before they found a space. In 2005, the committee approached the Canadian Mental Health Association on Wyndham Street which had a vacant board room. They donated the room to the committee and OOTS officially opened its doors to the public on October 20, 2005. In 2007 Out on the Shelf moved to the Matrix building due to the unavailability of their current space. After settling in, members began recruiting more volunteers, solidified the organization as a non-profit, and developed an Operations Committee and a Board of Directors. OOTS was officially incorporated as a non-profit on January 8, 2008. Unfortunately in 2020 OOTS was forces to close its doors of the library due to challenges of the COVID pandemic. After a two-year closure, and running all programming online, Out on the Shelf re-opened at its new location in 10C. An open house was held on November 20, 2022.
Over the years, we’ve blossomed into a thriving resource center. OOTS now has over 130 active members, over 30 volunteers and continues to grow! We are proud to offer a welcoming atmosphere that encourages connection and creativity. Each book, event, and initiative reflects our commitment to fostering understanding and acceptance in our diverse community.
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. We work closely with schools, local artists, and activists to bring fresh ideas and resources to our community. Through these partnerships, we host engaging events, reading clubs, and educational programs that spark conversations and inspire change. Together, we are building a brighter future for everyone.
As we look to the future, our commitment to inclusivity and support remains strong. We invite you to join us on this journey. Together, we can celebrate our stories, share knowledge, and empower each other. At Out on the Shelf, everyone belongs, and every voice matters.
To learn more about getting involved click the links below!
Looking for Guelph Pride? Visit their website by clicking the button below.
Have more questions?
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: Between the Lakes Purchase (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 website at mncfn.ca
Please check out Anishinaabeg Outreach, an organization 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.