Shelf Lovers Archives - Clayfield News

Wooloowin LGBTQIA+ Bookstore Closes Shop, Shifts to Pop-Ups

An LGBTQIA+ bookstore formerly based in Wooloowin has transitioned to a new operating model after closing its physical store earlier this year.

Bookstore Closes Doors in Wooloowin

Shelf Lovers, a Brisbane LGBTQIA+ bookstore, ceased operations at its Wooloowin shopfront after two years in business. The store, previously located on Dickson Street, officially closed in April 2025 due to financial difficulties during slower periods.

New Business Model Announced

Despite the closure, Shelf Lovers will continue trading through an updated business structure. Plans include operating as an online store, taking direct sales via email, and participating in markets and events with pop-up stalls. A new website is in development, alongside potential options for local delivery and click-and-collect within Brisbane.

The business aims to maintain its offerings, including LGBTQIA+ books, drag storytime sessions, and book meetings. Support services for professionals, such as curated reading lists covering topics like trans youth support, will also continue under the new format.

Wooloowin Storefront No Longer in Use

The former Wooloowin location, which served as the base for the business, played a significant role in building community connection. Although the physical store has closed, the business will retain its name and community-driven identity as it adapts to a mobile and digital presence.

Brisbane LGBTQIA+ bookstore — Photo Credit: Shelf Lovers/Facebook

Community Support and Continuity

Following the closure announcement, Shelf Lovers received extensive community support. Many customers expressed the bookstore’s importance as a safe space and cultural hub. The owner confirmed that community feedback heavily influenced the decision to restructure rather than shut down permanently.

Regular drag storytime sessions will continue every two months, with the next events set to take place at a new venue in Petrie Terrace. These events will run in partnership with Queer and Here Brisbane.

Looking Ahead

Shelf Lovers is finalising its new operating model and intends to maintain the spirit of the original store while evolving its approach to stay sustainable. Future operations will focus on accessibility through digital channels and in-person engagement at major events across Brisbane.

Published 10-July-2025

Wooloowin Queer Bookshop Shelf Lovers Closes Doors

The cherished LGBTQ+ and romance bookshop Shelf Lovers has permanently closed its physical store in Wooloowin, marking the end of what many considered an important safe space for the local community.

Final Trading Days

When its lease finished, the shop at 1 Dickson Street ceased operations at its brick-and-mortar location. The official closure date for the physical premises was 20 April. Trading concluded over the Easter weekend, which saw customers visit for a last chance to browse and take advantage of discounts.

Shelf Lovers hosted a final farewell event to mark the closure, celebrating with the community. Gold Coast drag queen Cady DeVille entertained attendees during a special story time, bringing smiles and laughter. Following the event, the Shelf Lovers team expressed thanks on social media to everyone who shared their final weekend, acknowledging it involved laughs, tears, and many books.

Difficult Decision and Community Space

Owner Kat previously announced the closure online, stating that deciding not to commit to a new lease was incredibly difficult. She revealed that considerations regarding her family’s financial situation and her health and wellness influenced the decision.

The bookshop had become recognised as a significant, inclusive, safe space within Brisbane for the LGBTQ+ community and romance readers. If the shop had continued operating from its physical location, plans had been made to develop the space further.

Online Presence Continues

While the Wooloowin store is permanently closed, Shelf Lovers continues operating its online business. Customers can still purchase books through their website. The business can be contacted via email at shelflovers@outlook.com.

Kat mentioned previously that they were investigating options to continue the business in some form in the future, potentially. However, she noted that there were no definite answers yet regarding what that might look like, but updates would be provided.

Published Date 22-April-2025

Shelf Lovers Bookshop in Wooloowin Reopens After Bus Crash, Continues to Spread Love

Photo Credit: Shelf Lovers

Brisbane’s beloved LGBTQIA+ bookstore, Shelf Lovers, located in Wooloowin, has finally reopened its doors following a startling incident where a bus collided with its front porch, causing significant damage.

The incident left the store’s roof and footpath in disarray, forcing a temporary closure. Owner Kat took to Instagram to share photos of the aftermath and express her relief that no one was injured. A demolition crew was swiftly brought in to ensure the safety of the building and its contents.

Despite the setback, the community has rallied behind it, eager to see the store back in action. Kat announced that engineers had given them the all-clear, allowing them to reopen as planned. She expressed overwhelming gratitude for their support and excitement about welcoming everyone back for the birthday events.

Shelf Lovers, which opened a year ago, has quickly become a haven for the LGBTQIA+ community in Brisbane. The store offers a carefully curated selection of books and gifts, and a welcoming space for everyone. Kat emphasised the store’s motto, “Lots of Pride, No Prejudice,” and its commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment.

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A post shared by Shelf Lovers (@shelf.lovers)

The idea for Shelf Lovers was born out of Kat’s own experience as a parent of a transgender and gay son. Struggling to find accessible resources, she created a space where others could easily find their needed support and understanding.

Published Date 13-April-2024