Supporting bookstores owned by Black people is one of the ways to show love for Black culture. This also helps in building welcoming communities. These bookstores not only sell books but also unite people through events, talks, and programs. The following are the top 10 bookstores owned by Black people in the U.S.
1. Marcus Books – Oakland, CA
Marcus Books, established in 1960, is the oldest Black-owned bookstore in the U.S. It’s located in Oakland, California. This bookstore has been an important place for the stories, history, and culture of the Black people. The store offers books for all ages. In addition to this, it holds events that honor Black heritage. The public considers Marcus Books as a key spot for learning and sharing culture in the Bay Area.
2. The Lit. Bar – Bronx, NY
The Lit. Bar, opened in 2019, is the only independent bookstore in the Bronx. In addition to a bookstore, it is also a bar. Therefore, making it a fun and welcoming place to read and socialize. The store has a wide range of books. In addition to this, events like book signings, readings, and community meetups are often held at the store.
3. Semicolon Bookstore & Gallery – Chicago
Semicolon Bookstore & Gallery is the only store exclusively owned by a Black woman in Chicago. In addition to a bookstore, it is also an art gallery. It was a project to improve reading in the city by providing free books to students in public schools. The store has various kinds of books and art displays. In addition to this, the store even hosts programs that teach about culture.
4. Harriett’s Bookshop – Philadelphia, PA
Harriett’s Bookshop honors the famous freedom fighter, Harriet Tubman. It focuses on books about women artists, leaders, and writers. The bookshop holds events that bring people together to talk and learn. It’s a secure and welcoming place that honors Black women, their strength, and their struggles.
5. Source Booksellers – Detroit, MI
Source Booksellers is a famous bookshop that offers non-fictional and cultural books. The place has a good ambiance along with a friendly, cozy vibe. The place offers a variety of books including the ones based on history, self-care, and African American culture. In addition to this, the store also hosts special activities like yoga and meetings with authors, therefore, making it a great place for learning.
6. Hakim’s Bookstore – Philadelphia, PA
Hakim’s Bookstore started in 1959, is the oldest Black-owned bookstore in Philadelphia. The founder of the store is Dawud Hakim. The store has a wide collection of books based on Black history, culture, and stories. The store is known to be a historic landmark in Pennsylvania and it still plays an important role in the Black community.
7. Cafe con Libros – Brooklyn, NY
Cafe con Libros is a bookstore cum coffee shop owned by an Afro-Latina woman. The store focuses on feminist books and ideas. In addition to this, it also hosts book clubs and public meetings on fairness, justice, and empowerment. It’s a warm and safe place where women can enjoy reading and socializing simultaneously.
8. Grassroots Bookstore – Phoenix, AZ
Grassroots Bookstore is the only bookstore owned by the Black community in Phoenix. The store has a wide variety of books based on African American culture. However, it also has a juice bar, coffee shop, and shared work area. As a result, this makes the store a friendly place for the community. It’s a welcoming spot where people can learn, connect, and feel empowered.
9. Black Pearl Bookstore – Austin, TX
Black Pearl Bookstore is a family-owned bookstore. It had started online as a pop-up shop in 2019. The store offers a variety of books. The store even has certain books that share some unheard and banned voices. As a result, its goal is to help people read more and have access to good learning materials.
10. MahoganyBooks – Washington, D.C.
MahoganyBooks is an independent bookstore. It focuses on books written for the people, by the people, on the people of African descent. The store offers a good collection of books. In addition to this, it also hosts events that celebrate Black culture and support their communities. MahoganyBooks also provides books to children in Washington, D.C., thereby helping to educate and inspire young readers.
Also read: Top 10 Black-Owned News Channels in the USA
Conclusion
Checking out and supporting Black-owned bookstores is not only about buying books from there but also connecting with their communities. People can help preserve and promote Black culture and history by showing them that they matter. These bookstores offer experiences that go beyond reading whether you are looking for books, art, or a place to hang out. You should consider visiting at least one of these stores to support them and their lively communities.
