LGBT stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender which has been in use since the 1990s and is intended to emphasize a diversity of sexuality and gender identity-based cultures.

It may be used to refer to anyone who is non-heterosexual or non-cisgender, instead of exclusively to people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. To recognize this inclusion, a popular variant adds the letter Q for those who identify as queer or are questioning their sexual identity; LGBTQ has been recorded since 1996.

Those who add intersex people to LGBT groups use an extended initialism LGBTI. Some people combine the two acronyms and use the term LGBTIQ. Others use LGBT+ to encompass a spectrum of gender and sexuality. 

We have gathered together here a collection of books which inspire and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, raise awareness and educate society.

We take you on a journey here from picture books that reflect LGBTQI family life to YA novels and non-fiction titles that explore sexuality, gender issues and romance.

Some useful resources....

Pride in London parade is taking place on Saturday 6 July, and as with last year there are plans for live streams of concerts and showcases celebrating pride.

Find out more about the 1969 Stonewall Riots, the history of the Pride movement and gay people's rights at www.bbc.co.uk/newsround

The Proud Trust charity has resources and help for LGBT+ young people.

Stonewall has help and advice to help make your schools and colleges more LGBTQ+ inclusive.

This Pride Month and every month we read and recommend books that celebrate our differences and this collection is constantly updated with our favourite reads.