PREVIEW: Read, Sing, and Shine at Drag Queen Storytime with Noelle Diamond
06/06 @ Albany Public Library
**This article originally appeared in our June 2026 issue**
Photos by Kiki Vassilakis
“This is something that I would have enjoyed when I was a kid and probably saw myself in the performer. It would have made me not feel quite as isolated growing up.”
To kick off Pride Month 2026, the Albany Public Library will be hosting a morning of stories, songs, and fun with Drag Queen Storytime led by Noelle Diamond on June 6. Noelle has been working with the Albany Public Library for eight years and has hosted drag storytimes across the Capital Region and Massachusetts.
For each one she explains that, “It's a series of singing songs and reading stories. The stories usually have some sort of tie to a gender identity theme, expression or a moral of acceptance that ties it all together.” And, of course, Noelle will be showcasing her iconic drag.
With years of experience under her belt, she says that the concern that folks often have about events like hers is simply just overthinking. “If there's a story that has two mothers in it, I think that a lot of parents worry about how they're going to have to explain that to a kid,” she says. “And all of the kids are like, ‘Okay, that one just has two moms.’ Aside from me being dressed up and sparkly, it's really not a lot different from any other storytime they would go to.”
In addition to the smiles and laughter that will come alongside the songs and the stories, Noelle also finds joy in the event through remembering her younger self and giving back. “I think that kids can benefit from having a diverse array of programming,” she says. “This is something that I would have enjoyed when I was a kid and probably saw myself in the performer. It would have made me not feel quite as isolated growing up.”
And if you’re looking for reading beyond June 6, Noelle has recommendations to add to you and your child’s reading lists. One of these favorites, she tells me, is Not All Princesses Dress in Pink by Jane Yolen and Heidi E.Y. Stemple, illustrated by Anne-Sophie Lanquetin. “It's a cute, rhymey book. There's a theme about not all girls having to dress in pink and be feminine. You know, they can play soccer and wear dirty clothes and are messy sometimes. They don't have to be this prim and proper type of way.”
It’s the first book Noelle ever read at a storytime, and actually led to a full-circle moment. “I had posted a photo of me reading it on Instagram and one of the authors reached out to me and sent me a signed copy of her book. That's the one that I read now, which I think is really cool.” Years later, Noelle was booked for a storytime in one of the authors’ hometowns in Massachusetts and was able to meet the author, reading to her in the audience. “So, I guess I’m kind of biased on that one!” she admits.
For our Hudson Valley readers, keep your eye on Kinderhook Memorial Library where Noelle also performs consistently. She’ll be hosting a storytime event there during June as well. And, no matter which one you attend, come prepared for an hour filled with fun, sparkles, and acceptance.
Drag Queen Storytime will be held at the 161 Washington Avenue branch in Albany in the Community Room from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on June 6. Check out albanypubliclibrary.org to see their other programming for the month and find Noelle Diamond on Instagram @noelle.diamond to see her upcoming events.
