Celebrate National Black Bookstore Day: Support These Gems

Mark your calendars! April 7th is officially National Black Bookstore Day, a celebration of the incredible independent bookstores that serve as cornerstones of Black culture, activism, and community. These aren’t just places to buy books; they are vibrant hubs for learning, connection, and the preservation of our rich histories.

More Than Just Books: Community Anchors

Black-owned bookstores have long been central to activism, civil rights movements, educational initiatives, and cultural preservation. They provide essential spaces for dialogue, host author events, and offer curated selections that reflect and celebrate Black experiences. The growth from just 54 Black-owned bookstores in 2010 to over 300 today is a powerful testament to the community’s support and the enduring value of these institutions.

This initiative, powered by former Sacramento Mayor and NBA star Kevin Johnson (founder of the National Association of Black Bookstores and owner of Underground Books), shines a spotlight on the essential work these businesses do. Let’s celebrate by showing some love to these incredible spots!

Must-Visit Black-Owned Bookstores Across the Nation

• **Marcus Books (San Francisco, CA):** Established in 1960 by Julian and Raye Richardson, this is the oldest independent Black-owned bookstore in the U.S. Now in its second generation of leadership, it remains a vital center for education, activism, and African American literature and history.
• **The Lit. Bar (The Bronx, NY):** Founded by Noëlle Santos in 2019, this unique bookstore-wine-bar hybrid is The Bronx’s only independent bookstore. Its mission is to combat “book deserts” and bring literary resources back to underserved communities.
• **Hakim’s Bookstore (Philadelphia, PA):** Dawud Hakim established this Philadelphia institution in 1959, making it the city’s oldest Black-owned bookstore. Located in West Philadelphia, it specializes in Black historical and educational materials.
• **Baldwin & Co. (New Orleans, LA):** Founded in the early 2020s by DJ Johnson, this contemporary bookstore and coffee shop has quickly become a community cornerstone, fostering literacy and cultural connection.
• **Source Booksellers (Detroit, MI):** Janet Webster Jones founded this bookstore in 2002 with a focus on nonfiction, health, and social justice. It aims to empower individuals through knowledge and foster social change.
• **MahoganyBooks (Washington, D.C.):** Founded by Derrick and Ramunda, MahoganyBooks started online in 2007 and opened its physical store in 2017. It’s a nationally recognized brand promoting “Black books matter” through curated selections and author events.
• **Kindred Stories (Houston, TX):** Nikki High established this Black bookstore and community space in 2021, focusing its literary and programmatic work on Black women and social justice narratives.
• **For Keeps Books (Atlanta, GA):** Founded by Rosa Duffy in 2018 in Atlanta’s historic Black district, this rare bookstore specializes in Black print culture and ephemera, aiming to protect essential archival materials.
• **Brain Lair Books (South Bend, IN):** Kathy Burnette founded this children’s bookstore in 2019, dedicated to helping children find literature that reflects their own identities and offering diverse stories for all backgrounds.

These bookstores are more than just retail spaces; they are vital cultural institutions that enrich our communities and preserve our stories. On National Black Bookstore Day, let’s make a conscious effort to support these incredible businesses, discover new reads, and connect with the vibrant literary world they offer.