Conversations with Sharon Rotblatt

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharon Rotblatt.

Hi Sharon, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
LGBTQ Book Love OH began in June 2023 as a rebellion against the anti-LGBTQ legislation coming from the Ohio Statehouse. We started with a few donated books and local volunteers delivering books to Little Free Libraries in the area, focusing on rural communities. We have grown dramatically since then, and to date have distributed almost 1400 books in 30 Ohio counties to Little Free Libraries, LGBT community centers and organizations, and at Pride events across Ohio. We collect and distribute LGBTQ+ themed and authored books for all ages (kids, teens, and adults). We are entirely volunteer run and donation funded. We believe everyone deserves to see themselves in the books they read!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As Ohio has become increasingly intolerant of the LGBTQ+ community (especially trans individuals), the need for books has actually grown. Many school libraries are restricted in purchasing or sharing books that explore sexual orientation and gender identity. Bookstores in conservative communities are more selective about the books they carry, mindful of individuals who promote book bans. But while the need has increased, funding continues to be our greatest challenge. Corporations and large companies who no longer support diversity, equity and inclusion have discontinued grant programs. We gratefully accept any monetary donations to purchase books, and also receive donations of books (often from LGBTQ+ indie authors).

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a social worker by training, which directly leads to what I do as the Executive Director of LGBTQ Book Love OH. I believe that all individuals should be supported in reaching their full potential in the way that feels most authentic to them. I am also a Mama Bear, the parent of an LGBTQ+ adult child. The community of Real Mama Bears works to support and affirm the life journey of every person in the LGBTQ+ community without judgement. And as a lifelong reader and lover of literature, I hope that by sharing books I can encourage literacy and build a joy of reading. When someone reads a book that affirms what they think, feel, and believe to be true about themselves, it builds self-esteem and confidence.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice for anyone starting a non-profit is to follow your passion. Know that if even one person benefits from what you are doing, it is worthwhile. Once you start reaching out to people, you find so many that share your enthusiasm and build a community. I love non-profit work!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lgbtqbookloveoh/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550078647054
• Other: https://linktr.ee/lgbtqbookloveoh