There is a major crisis that is failing more than a fifth of U.S. citizens — a crisis we rarely speak about. In fact, the issue of literacy, the ability to read and write, affects a majority of the population. The National Literacy Institute states that as of 2024, 21% of adults are illiterate, and 54% of adults are below a 6th-grade literacy level.
Together, this is something we can change. Everyone should have fair access to books. This means getting kids and adults alike excited about reading. Everybody loves a good bookstore, but the best ones do just that. In this article, we will be looking at four inspiring bookstore owners who place literacy at the top of their priority list.
Women & Children First
First, let’s take a peek at this incredible women-owned bookshop, whose name alone shows just how much it prioritizes community members. Women & Children First is a Chicago-based bookstore that aims to bring representation to marginalized voices. Through programs like Chicago Books to Women in Prison and School Partnerships, the shop maintains goals of supporting literacy and empowering underserved communities. The bookstore also hosts several book groups that cater to women and children and foster a communal love for reading. What better way to encourage literacy?
The store’s current owners, Lynn Mooney and Sarah Hollenbeck, strive to continue the mission of inclusivity that began with Ann Christophersen and Linda Bubon in 1979. With events like storytime for kids and Banned Book Group meetings, the bookstore nurtures the literacy of each of its community members.
Kuna’s Book Habit
This family-friendly bookstore in Kuna, Idaho, strives to boost literacy for Idahoan kids. According to Idaho News 6, “About half of Idaho kids aren’t ready for Kindergarten reading levels when starting school.” Bryan McBee, owner of Kuna’s Book Habit, intends to help change that.
In the story, he relates that the bookstore was founded as a way to foster literacy for kids. To McBee, childhood literacy is a number one priority. With a wide selection of chapter books, this bookstore extends the opportunity to improve reading skills for local children. I can’t be the only one wanting to go check it out! The store also has frequent sales, author signings, book fairs, and storytime events. We need more bookstores like Kuna’s Book Habit.
Friendly City Books
“We believe in the power of books to build community, writers to change the world, and reading as a force for good.”
That’s what this bookstore’s nonprofit site says about its values. What book lover wouldn’t agree with that? Friendly City Books in Columbus, Mississippi, is a small business that seeks to foster connection and improve literacy. Its nonprofit arm, in particular, has inspired real change in the community. In its first six months alone, the program donated over 3,200 books to neighboring schools and libraries.
The store also organizes fun events and festivals for community members to come together and bond. Elementary schools and authors alike benefit from the bookstore’s efforts as childhood literacy skills increase and books from unrecognized authors find readers. Just like its name, it’s clear that Friendly City Books promotes friendly connections over books.
Frugal Bookstore
This Black-owned bookstore in Boston, Massachusetts, maintains a “frugal” mindset with low book prices for local buyers. The store’s motto, “Changing Minds One Book At A Time,” reflects its goal to make a meaningful difference in the lives of each reader. The bookstore’s passion for literacy is covered in an article by The Huntington News, which relates the staff’s desire to keep reading accessible to all. Along with affordability, the store’s workers are committed to diverse representation through both its books and its staff.
Not only is Frugal Bookstore Black-owned, but it celebrates Black literature, art, and culture. For customers, this bookstore is a safe, family-friendly place with books that people can identify with. The shop’s website states that if you are unable to find the book you’re looking for, they will “special order any book you cannot find.” How special is that? Additionally, all its books are brand new. I know where I want to book shop when I visit Boston!
The first step to improving literacy in the community is simple: inspire a love for books. That’s exactly what these four passionate bookstore owners have set out to do.
Want to discover more bookstores that inspire a change for good? Click here.
Shop online from local bookstores like these on bookshop.org.
