Drag Queen Storytime filled Barrie Public Library with children’s laughter, song and delight Saturday morning.
A total of 27 children - most of them pre-schoolers - and 30 adults registered to hear Justine read four books and lead them in song at the downtown branch’s Angus Ross Room.
“It was just a great selection of stories, with good messages,” said Eleanor Alexander of Barrie, attending with daughter Azita, who’s four years old.
And Tango Makes Three, Jacob’s New Dress, Be You! and Pride Puppy! were read by Justine, when the children weren’t clapping, jumping up and down, stretching and singing, or using the multi-coloured egg shakers that were handed out, while trying to sit still on little mats spread out on the floor.
“I can’t do this without you, so thank you all,” Justine said, noting her message includes accepting different cultures and diversity.
“Everyone is allowed to express themselves any way that makes them feel comfortable.”
Lauren Jessop, Barrie Public Library’s chief executive officer, said the library has been holding Drag Queen Storytimes since 2017 (remotely during the COVID -19 pandemic).
“And always without a hitch,” she said, noting it’s part of the library’s Reading Champion Series.
