A children's book reading by a drag queen that generated controversy in Mount Gambier before the performance has gone ahead without incident.

Dolly Diamond's book reading at the Mount Gambier Library took place this morning despite angry comments on social media ahead of her performance and a death threat that was phoned into the library yesterday.

Chris Cole was among several people concerned about the show who came to watch.

"I've lived a good life and I've seen plenty of stuff but there's a place for everything I think," she said.

She said she was "not impressed" with Diamond's "croaky" voice but was glad she dressed conservatively.

"I'm concerned of what’s happening with our children at the moment in the world and things that are happening and the expectation of small children in relation to what they see, what they hear and what they are influenced by other than their parents and I think that is a major concern," Ms Cole said.

Supporters glad event went ahead

Local LGBT advocate Di Ind had been concerned the show would be disrupted but was glad it was not.

"I want to thank everyone for showing the respect that Dolly deserves," she said.

Ms Ind and several other people stood between those concerned about the performance and the group of about 40 children watching it.

"It’s really important that Mount Gambier people support acts and performers such as Dolly so that we can continue to broaden our horizons," she said.

"We want people to come to Mount Gambier."

Diamond was not fussed about her detractors.

"I’m not really worried what they thought, to be honest," she said.

Similar book readings have attracted protests in the US over the past few months, as well as interstate.

Two police officers turned up at the event.

The Mount Gambier Fringe festival started last night with a street party and parade.

Diamond and her offsider, Tash York, will perform an adults-only show tonight at the Limestone Coast Pantry.