Black-owned bookstores reach record numbers, but many still struggle

"We're in a climate right now where our history is being erased and debated in schools and libraries. It points to a need more than ever for visibility into our voices, our stories and our history."

"We saw the shelf space for Black books shrinking - from a bookcase and a half to half a bookcase - even for major authors. Independent bookstores play a role in preserving access to the full body of work by Black authors."

"Increased revenue is good. Profitability is always the challenge. Independent bookstores average roughly 3% net profit margins. If that's considered successful, it means a lot of stores are operating at 2%, zero or even negative."

Black-owned bookstores represent approximately 8% of independent bookstores despite comprising only 4% of the publishing workforce. The first State of the Black Bookstore report revealed growth, but this masks significant economic challenges. Ninety percent of stores report annual revenue under $250,000, and 36% operate without permanent brick-and-mortar locations. Fourteen states have no Black-owned bookstores, and sales of books by Black authors declined 14% even as overall print sales rose. Shelf space for Black authors has shrunk in many stores. To survive, Black-owned bookstores are diversifying revenue through curation, author events, mentorship programs, literacy initiatives, and community partnerships rather than relying solely on retail sales.

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