The parking lot of a Hamilton Public Library (HPL) was blocked this morning as protesters took aim at a reading event for young children.

Drag queen storytime readings have been happening at libraries across Ontario for years, but today two groups clashed over the idea and police were there.

The situation escalated quickly outside the Terryberry Library Thursday morning as one protestor tried to enter the library. There was yelling and swearing from both protesters and supporters.

Protestors showed up after learning that the library would hold drag storytime from 10 to 10:30 a.m. for young kids. Dozens of people also came to show their support.

Shelly McKay from Hamilton Public Library says there were around 20 to 25 kids inside at the story-time. They have held this event before at the Binbrook library, but there wasn’t a protest.

“It’s a wonderful event that is welcoming for the community. We’re pretty fortunate that we’re able to do that and host this at the Hamilton Public Library. It’s really an opportunity to showcase inclusivity and the diversity of our community and still be welcoming. It’s songs, it’s singing, it’s age-appropriate,” McKay said.

Hamilton police officers were seen outside the library as well standing between the protestors and supporters.

Many of the kids and visitors at the library were escorted by supporters who were seen guarding the entrances.

CHCH News reached out to the host of drag storytime today for comment but has yet to hear back.