Build Your Library With These Four Brilliant Black-Owned Bookstores
Whether you’re trapped inside or simply hooked on phonics, odds are you’ll spend some time reading this summer.
So why not build your library the socially aware way? Check out these four brilliant Black-owned bookstores, all of which offer shipping services across the US.
1.) The Lit Bar
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“… and all the little sisters yearning to see themselves: this is for you.” -@acevedowrites
Based out of The Bronx, The Lit Bar is a Black and female-owned bookstore. This shop was opened by Noëlle Santos in an effort to provide a more sustainable, accessible, and community-minded bookstore in her neighborhood. The Lit Bar defies big-box bookstores by providing a bounty of thought-provoking literature that is relevant to the Black community.
2.) Old Capitol Books
Based in Monterey, CA, this store features a large collection of volumes focusing on the LGBTQ+ community, feminism/gender, ethnic studies, and black history. If nonfiction isn’t your thing, don’t fret; Old Capitol Books also houses many fiction texts, as well as how-to’s and cookbooks.
3.) AfriWare Books, Co
AfriWare Books has been a beacon of Black pride since 1993. A staple of their Illinois community, Afriware serves as a true epicenter for cultural literacy, using their platform to promote and give voices to Black writers, artists and entrepreneurs.
4.) Enda’s Booktique
Enda’s Booktique is a Black-owned bookstore with a strong passion for equality and feminism. The mission of this Texas-based store is to promote equity in education and literature. Enda’s offers a fabulous collection of volumes written by, for, and about women.
When checking out these fabulous bookstores, don’t forget that there aren’t just four Black-owned bookstores out there. Show your support for the African American community by building your shelves with books from other Black-owned shops, too.
