According to a report published by the National Association of Black Bookstores, there are 306 Black-owned bookstores in the United States of America, representing approximately 8% of independent bookstores nationwide. And 14 states currently have no Black-owned bookstore. Utah has a wonderful Black-owned mobile bookstore. ✨ CROWNE BOOKS ✨ aims to bring the first brick-and-mortar Black-owned bookstore to the state of Utah.***
Brought to you by Olivia Nightingale, an award-winning editor and romance author, this new addition to Salt Lake City’s literary scene will specialize in literature written by and about African Americans, Africans, and the African Diaspora!
We will stock a variety of frontlist and backlist titles, maintaining a healthy mix of new and used books across all genres of Black literature, including comics, manga, and graphic novels.
Olivia strongly believes literacy is liberation and her legacy. She wants to do her part by leaving her mark on SLC’s third spaces by providing a safe and inclusive space for the Black community, allies, family, and friends to come together over the joy of a great book!
Our ultimate goal of comfortably securing a lease and renovating a permanent location is underway. Olivia is working with the Salt Lake Department of Economic Development and community partners, and is also exploring other areas of Utah that may be a great fit. But she is starting with the funds needed to make a significant impact as a pop-up all across the state. $7,500 will allow her to:
- Buy 500+ New and Used Books by Black Authors
- Upgrade the Point-of-Sale (POS) System & Website
- Acquire Signage, More Shelving & Exterior Branding
- Obtain the Rest of the Necessary Insurance, Permits, and Licensing
- Stock 15+ Black-Owned Stationery & Gift Brands from Small Businesses
If and when this goal is met, the campaign will enter stage two, revealing the permanent location where we intend to put down roots and her transition into a book truck. The final stage will be the grand opening of the brick-and-mortar in 2027! Join us by donating and spreading the word. Every dollar helps build this dream, combat rising illiteracy, and promote diversity!
With Love ♥,
Olivia, Owner of Crowne Books
#blackowned #womanowned #indiebookstore #smallbusiness #utah
***Using data available from the NAB² database, there are no other Black-owned brick-and-mortar bookstores in operation as of the 2025 report.
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