Indie Bookstores Celebrate Black History Month

This year, booksellers took to social media to celebrate diverse voices during Black History Month. From book recommendations to in-store displays, here are some ways booksellers are getting involved:

MahoganyBooks in Washington, D.C., posted to Instagram: “Why not kick-off the dopest month of the entire year with a little shine to add to your space? Whether you’re at home or want to rock your support of Black books in your office, or in the living room, this is a declaration every single one of us to hold space for writers often overlooked. For books not considered ‘mainstream’ enough, and for voices who have the power to transform and enlighten. For us, Black Books not only matter, they are indeed very necessary. This triumphant, handmade pennant is for any and everyone who knows the value of reading phenomenal works.”

Semicolon in Chicago, Illinois, posted to Instagram: “Happy Black History Month, y’all!⁣ Your favorite booksellers have worked hard to step our representation game up for the next month, and we’ll be making a point to see and be seen via a myriad of partnerships in the city and beyond.”

The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles, California, recommended a book on Instagram: “Never judge a book by its cover unless it looks like this. If you’re looking for a hot new escape we highly recommend this fantastical debut novel by @namina.forna.”

Avid Reader in Davis, California, posted to Instagram: ““In love with these new mugs!”

Bookish in Atlanta, Georgia, posted to Instagram: “Check out this little section of our Black History/Black is Beautiful/Black Excellence table!”

Books & Books, with locations in Florida, posted to Instagram: “Bring your little readers to the bookstore to check out our #BlackHistoryMonth display in our kids' room! We have books for all reading levels, so you can use story time as a way to inspire discussion and learning.”

Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore in Middletown, Connecticut, posted to Instagram: “Black history IS our history. What books are you reading to celebrate Black History Month?”

Where the Sidewalk Ends Bookstore in Chatham, Massachusetts, posted to Instagram: “February is Black History Month! Come visit us to browse our wonderful selection of non-fiction titles, as well as featured fiction and children's books by Black authors.”

Liberty Bay Books in Poulsbo, Washington, posted to Instagram: “We were so moved by @amandascgorman’s poem. Look at this beautiful art on our chalkboard created by @isabelleranson and new bookseller, Dani! Don’t forget to preorder The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorman - out in March!”