San Francisco Bookstores

Literary San Francisco: Explore Weird and Wonderful at Local Bookstores

Foglifter springs from a rich tradition of queer and trans literature in San Francisco and is indebted to the incredible bookstores that help keep that tradition alive. 

Fabulosa Books

Located in the Castro, directly across from Strut (which hosts all our in-person issue launches), is one of our favorite destinations for LGBTQIA+ literature in the Bay, Fabulosa Books! Not only does Fabulosa stock Foglifter, but they also concentrate on queer and trans literature, making them a destination for both local queer and trans readers and visitors. Make sure to subscribe to their mailing list to be in the loop about events like a conversation with Zach Ozma and Ellis Martin, the editors of We Both Laughed In Pleasure: The Selected Diaries of Lou Sullivan, a trans pioneer and founding member of the GLBT Historical Society on June 13th, 2023.

Medicine for Nightmares

Recently-opened Medicine for Nightmares, located in the Mission at the former location of the beloved Alley Cat Books, keeps the Latinx/Chicanx traditions of their neighborhood alive with Speaking Axolotl, a “monthly Latinx/Chicanx reading series that happens the third Thursday of each month.” They also prominently feature queer and trans books and host many events with LGBTQ+ authors. 

Dog Eared Books

Another cornerstone of the Mission neighborhood, Dog Eared Books, not only features great queer and trans literature, but also buys and sells used books, if you’re looking to refresh your bookshelves at home. Additionally, Dog Eared highlights the work of brilliant local visual artists and offers it for sale, supporting the work and livelihood of all sorts of creative people in the Bay.

Folio Books

As “a queer and woman-owned independent bookshop in Noe Valley,” Folio Books is the go-to destination for queer and trans literature in that historically-lesbian neighborhood. They often host queer- and trans-focused events and have shelves dedicated to LGBTQIA+ literature, so you’re always going to find something new, exciting, and queer to enjoy.

Green Apple Books 

Green Apple Books has been an SF stalwart since 1967, and has consistently supported the vibrant literature of queer and trans writers. Another location for buying used as well as new books, you’ll find classics along with all the new releases you’re clamoring for. And be sure to check out their event calendar, since their programming is expansive as well as inclusive. 

Hopefully, you enjoyed this tour through a few of the many bookstores of San Francisco that have given so much to our queer and trans literary communities. Whether you’re a Bay-Area local or visiting for the first time, direct your steps in their direction and be a part of writing the next chapter of this rich history.