ROME — Keaton & Lloyd Bookshop, 236 W. Dominick St., will offer its first drag story time at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 3.

The program, “Sleepy Story Time is a Drag,” will benefit ARC Health, a non-profit organization with several offices in the region. While treating a wide range of diseases, ARC Health offers several resources that specifically benefit the LGBTQ population.

Over the past several years, drag story times have sprouted up across the nation. These fun, interactive programs instill a love of reading in youth, while also introducing them to new and important topics related to the LGBTQ community.

At the evening event, children are encouraged to dress in their favorite pajamas. Two drag performers, Electra Qute and Makenzie Taylor, will read stories and sing songs about families, love, and diversity.

“Serving the LGBTQ population is an integral part of my bookshop,” said Keaton & Lloyd owner Julie Whittemore.

“It’s extremely important for youth to understand that it is OK to be themselves and support others as they do the same. This is what we hope to teach through this program.”

While the program is free to attend, donations for ARC Health will be collected both in-person and online through a Facebook fundraiser.

Among its many programs, ARC Health operates The Q Center, a safe space for LGBTQ youth, their families, and allies to gather, share, and receive support.

This is an all-ages event. The program will be live-streamed via Facebook (@keatonandlloyd).

The bookshop’s resident felines, Carl and Hoagy, will also be available for petting.

For questions about Keaton & Lloyd Bookshop’s programming, call 315-795-2017 or email keatonandlloyd@gmail.com.