Chicago feminist spaces engage with zine swaps, drag brunches & workshops
Looking for more than just a latte or the latest Nora Roberts? Across Chicago, a growing number of bookstores, cafes and galleries are sharing bold ideas. Join a DIY workshop or sip coffee in a feminist bookstore….
Women & Children First (Andersonville, Chicago)
One of the country’s oldest feminist bookstores, with a cozy event space. Offers drag queen story hours, zine-making workshops, LGBTQ+ readings, and author talks.
womenandchildrenfirst.com
Nomad Chicago (West Town)
Female-founded boutique and cafe that hosts pop-up events, artist talks, and sells goods from women-owned brands. A modern, inclusive lifestyle café with an activist edge.
nomad-chicago.com
Woman Made Gallery (Pilsen/UIC, Chicago)
A feminist art gallery that regularly hosts zine workshops, such as “Zines of Care,” and exhibits by women and nonbinary artists. Perfect for community zine or poetry nights.
womanmade.org
Zine Club Chicago (Various Locations)
This community-driven group hosts regular zine-making meetups, often in cafés and bookstores, celebrating storytelling and self-publishing culture.
facebook.com/zineclubchicago
Read/Write Library (Humboldt Park)
A volunteer-run library of independent media, zines, and ephemera. Hosts zine fests, art workshops, and is a hub for radical knowledge-sharing.
readwritelibrary.org
Lillstreet Art Center (Ravenswood)
This art center offers printmaking, bookbinding, and zine-making workshops—an excellent fusion of feminist arts and community space.
lillstreet.com
Want to join in?
- Follow events on Instagram, Eventbrite, or Tock
- RSVP early—many dinners and workshops sell out within hours
- Consider hosting your own zine or supper pop-up in your suburb or neighborhood café
- Partner with collectives like Zine Club Chicago or Woman Made Gallery to bring new experiences to your community
