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Get to Know 2023 - 2026 LGBTQIA+ Forum Chair Nico D'Archangel

Nico DArchangel

Nico D’Archangel is a trans man currently working for Richmond Public Library and volunteering with VLA’s LGBTQIA+ Forum as their Chair. Having wanted to be a librarian since second grade, he's living out that dream and plans to get a Masters Degree at some point to earn the capital L in Librarian. Nico has lived in varied places, from Kentucky and Tennessee to Ontario and Arizona, and Virginia is where he’s decided to put down roots. Nico is an activist for accessibility in libraries in addition to making sure libraries are safe places for Queer & BIPOC staff as a priority. He has experience in Archives, Inter-Library Loans, Youth Services, and Circulation in both academic and public libraries. He loves that there’s always more to learn in libraries.

No stranger to the spotlight, Nico’s been giving speeches since age 5, participated in choirs and a stage play, as well as an assistant on stage with an internationally known magician. Nico has a genuine enthusiasm for helping others which is evident in programming at his day job. He’s been on the Young Adult Virginia Author (YAVA) Committee evaluating books for inclusion, emceed the YAVA Awards and Read Up Richmond. Nico also facilitates a weekly virtual bowling for seniors as well as 1 on 1 tech assistance, teaches a book folding art class several times a year, and has created an annual program that begins with a resource drive for a local animal shelter which culminates in a Pet Party & Adoption Event.

A certifiable book wyrm, Nico is rarely without a book, often reading fantasy or romantasy with a special fondness for Queer stories, of course. Getting out into nature is how he recharges, frequently either going on walks with his dog or sitting near moving water to read with a snack.

Nico SnapshotsYour itinerary for one perfect day in Virginia:
After taking Jasmine on her morning walk, I'd go to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and slowly savour my way around it. I'd have lunch at my favorite Chinese place, Yum Yum Good, and then go home to take a nap or read and cuddle with my pup. I'd then meet up with my friends for a game night and cap off the day by renting a campsite so that I can have a small campfire and make s'mores under the stars. 


One thing you can’t live without:
Snacks! I always try to have some type of snacking option with me anywhere I go, mostly sweet ones while sometimes savory.

One favorite book that highlights diversity or inclusion:

Running Close to the Wind by Alexandra Rowland, it's a hilarious queer pirate tale in a queer-normative fantasy world and I loved every minute of it.

One piece of advice for LGBTQIA+ Forum members:

You're never alone. We are a community here and we can help shoulder your burdens or share your joy.

One accomplishment you’d like to share: 
I have survived all the trauma that life has thrown my way and strive to keep going one day at a time.