Quatrefoil Library is a library in Minneapolis, MN. Open: Mon–Tue Closed; Wed–Fri 7:00 – 9:00 PM; Sat–Sun 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Phone: (612) 729-2543. Average rating is 5.0 stars from 13 reviews. Website: https://qlibrary.org/.
Quatrefoil Library
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Bookshelves with a banner for Quatrefoil Library.
5.0 13 reviews Today Closed

Minnesota's LGBTQIA+ Library Legacy

Explore free membership, community events, and archival access at Quatrefoil Library on East Lake Street in Minneapolis.

Upcoming Gatherings

Events and gatherings coming up here. Get tickets or add them to your calendar.

SEP1
Technology Committee Meeting
11:00 pm
SEP3
Quatrefoil Board Meeting
10:30 pm
SEP5
Trauma Support Group
3:00 pm
SEP6
Rainbow Reads
3:00 pm
SEP6
Twin Cities Aroace Solidarity Group
5:30 pm
SEP7
Finance & Development Committee Meeting
9:30 pm
SEP8
Programming Committee Meeting
10:00 pm
SEP8
North Country Gaylaxians Book Club (Online)
11:00 pm

About Us

Exterior view of Quatrefoil Library with welcoming entrance.
Exterior view of Quatrefoil Library with welcoming entrance.

Since 1986, Quatrefoil Library has grown into one of the oldest circulating LGBTQIA+ libraries in the United States, all while staying volunteer-run and deeply community-centered. On East Lake Street in Minneapolis, it offers a place where books, DVDs, periodicals, and archival materials come together in a setting shaped by curiosity, care, and shared identity.

What makes this library stand out is its purpose. It is both a resource and a gathering place, with free membership opening the door to physical borrowing, digital access through Q Digital, and opportunities to connect through community groups and clubs. The atmosphere is rooted in access and belonging, with a story that continues to matter to readers, researchers, and neighbors across Minneapolis.

Visitors also find a living, active collection supported by volunteers and strengthened by donations, used book sales, author readings, and community participation. That combination gives Quatrefoil Library a distinctive character, practical, welcoming, and grounded in decades of LGBTQIA+ service.

What We Offer

Quatrefoil Library makes it easy to explore LGBTQIA+ literature, media, and archives in ways that fit different needs and schedules. With free library membership, guests can borrow physical materials and access the digital collection through Q Digital, extending the library experience beyond a single visit.

The library also supports connection, learning, and shared interests through community groups, clubs, and author readings. These programs give people a reason to return, discover something new, and take part in a space built for conversation and engagement.

Support the mission by donating books, shopping used book sales, or volunteering your time. As a volunteer-run community center, Quatrefoil Library turns participation into impact, helping preserve and share LGBTQIA+ books, DVDs, periodicals, and archival materials for Minneapolis readers and visitors alike.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“Wonderful LGBT library full of LGBT books and dvds. Archives of periodicals freely accessible. Hosts lots of queer events.”

— Ben Burns

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 months ago
"Came here as part of Doors Open Minneapolis. Fascinating story of why fonders Dick Hewetson and David Irwin created a space for LGBTQ+ literary and visual media work. Decent sized collection that is also available on Libby. Its a private collection and not subject to the book bans that you hear about in the news. Great archive of local magazines. They host events for the community to meet other like minded individuals. Incredibly kind folks who run the place. Glad something like this exists for the community."
— Anand
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
9 months ago
"I go here for a local craft club and it's always tons of fun. They have a parking lot out back, which I didn't know about until recently. This library is located on the first floor of an apartment building and has a ramp for wheelchair accessibility."
— A Caldwell
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
9 months ago
"Wonderful LGBT library full of LGBT books and dvds. Archives of periodicals freely accessible. Hosts lots of queer events."
— Ben Burns
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10 months ago
"Tons of books and the business of the store shows how great this bookstore is. I'd come here over a big chain anyday!!!"
— Tami Borden Zahler
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
a year ago
"I loveeee visiting this place! Its a great hidden gem, everyone is so nice and there are so many clubs to check out! ❤️"
— Andrea Jones

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Quatrefoil Library?

Quatrefoil Library is a volunteer-run community center and LGBTQIA+ library founded in 1986. It offers access to books, DVDs, periodicals, and archival materials.

Do I need a paid membership?

No, Quatrefoil Library offers free membership, making it easier to access its lending and digital resources.

What can I borrow or access?

The library provides physical material borrowing and digital collection access through Q Digital, along with access to its LGBTQIA+ collection and archival materials.

Does Quatrefoil Library host events or groups?

Yes, it offers community groups and clubs, along with author readings and other community-focused activities.

Can I support the library by donating?

Yes, book donations are accepted, and the library also offers used book sales that help support its mission.

What area does Quatrefoil Library serve?

Its service area is Minneapolis, MN, and it is located at 1220 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407, USA.

Hours of Operation

Closed · Opens Wednesday at 7:00
Monday Closed
Tuesday Today Closed
Wednesday 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
76° Clear Minneapolis
Tue 80° 68°
Wed 81° 64°
Thu 88° 58°
Fri 92° 62°
Sat 94° 67°
Sun 88° 79°
Mon 91° 69°

Get In Touch

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