BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Drag queens dressed up as Ariel, Jasmine, Merida and Wonder Woman for the first ever Drag Queen Story Time in Binghamton Saturday.

Families and children filled the room with laughter and smiles as the characters read the childhood favorites. 

Those involved say the new event aims to encourage children to read more, while teaching them about the importance of love and diversity.

"Not only did we bring the characters to life, we also showed inclusion," said Phil Howell, who played Wonder Woman. "And that there are a lot of different people in our community and we can all be a part of an event like this."

The library has other themed story hours, such as Nursery Rhyme Time, Toddler Time and Paws to Read.