A Compassionate Eye: The Work of Victor Arimondi

Fearless, passionate, brave and timeless - the work of Victor Arimondi stands the test of time and informs us today, as much as when it was made, of the many complexities and challenges of the human condition with an uncanny grace, compassion and elegance. This exhibition, the first by an institution since his passing in 2001 - encompasses the many threads of his photographic work that touch portraiture, still life, social commentary and documentary, fashion, experimental work, and the abstract.

Exhibition: From September 12 through December 10, 2009

Main Library, Third Floor, James C. Hormel Gay and Lesbian Center

Tragedy Transformed into Activism

Matthew Shepard's murder changed all our lives but foremost among those affected was Judy Shepard, his mother. Both because of her grief, and in spite of it, she became an activist committed to ending hate violence against LGBT people. In her book, The Meaning of Matthew: My Son's Murder in Laramie and a World Transformed, she shares the intimate details of her loss with honesty, forgiveness, determination and grace.

Here is a video of Judy Shepard speaking out in the name of her son and an article about the rising incidence of hate crimes against LGBT folks in the U.S.

Portraits, Plays Perversions

Controversial playwright George Birimisa will read from one of his plays that takes place in the notorious Strand Theater on Market Street. His plays have been praised by Tennessee Williams, Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin, and The New York Times. Mrs. Trauma Flintstone will provide the entertainment, along with her bevy of drag divas including Virginia Suicide and Countess Katya Smirnoff Skyy.

Tuesday, September 29 at 6:00pm. Main Library. Lower Level. Latino-Hispanic Room B.

Welcome to the LGBT Resources Blog of the San Francisco Public Library!

The San Francisco Public Library is full of resources for the LGBT Community. All branches hold published materials, magazines, videos and databases to help you with your research. The largest collection of materials is held at the James C. Hormel Gay and Lesbian Center of the Main Library, which includes an archives collection on the 6th Floor as well an extensive number of circulation resources. The Center sponsors many political and literary programs which are all free.

Our other LGBT hotspot is the Eureka Valley/Harvey Milk Memorial Branch, which is temporarily closed for renovation. When its new look has been completed, (the estimated date is late October), it will have beautifully paneled wood ceilings, better lighting, an expanded teen section, more public computers and lovely new landscaping. LGBT programs will be scheduled there when it re-opens so follow our blog and we'll keep you posted!