Let's Expand the Multicultural Bookstore

Short Summary

Independent bookstores play an important role in diversifying literature as an art form. Often becoming cornerstones within tight-knit communities, they provide a space where children can stimulate their imagination, expand their understanding of the world, and develop language and listening skills.

 

My name is Tamara Shiloh, and I own the Multicultural Bookstore in Richmond, California.

Prior to the start of the pandemic, we leased a super-large space in the Hilltop Mall. When they were forced to shut down, we had to move quickly. During that time, we were featured in O, The Oprah Magazine as a Black-owned bookstore to support.

 

 

 

 

We remained in Richmond but were unable to find a location that rivaled what we had space-wise in the mall. We currently share a space with the Bay Area Girls Club. It is a very lovely space with a patio, gazebo, and large lawn area for children to play.

And now, we are in dire need of expansion. Take a stroll through our present location with this 3D photo. ​​Sorry, you have to copy and paste the URL https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=B1t31dxioz3

 

 

 

Additional space will benefit everyone

A larger space will house a more robust inventory of diverse books, educational games, and puzzles. Storytime is an important activity, but there is no physical room to allow in-person readings in the store. A community area will add after-school and summer activities to our calendar, including a book club, author signings, and other children and adult activities.

 

Overall, this project will provide our community with more beautiful books and a safe, friendly environment for connecting and learning.

 

We are sharing a space with the Bay Area Girls Club. Our goal is to stay in this location. More space will allow us to collaborate on more wonderful programs with our community non-profit organizations, schools and businesses.

 

 

 

 

 

Funds

To cover the expenses of the project, we are looking to raise $100,000.00

 

You might think, “WOW, that’s a lot of money!”

 

The amount we are crowdfunding covers the brick-and-mortar and associated fees, architectural drawings, licenses, furnishings, including bookshelves and tables, overhead, salaries, and supplies.

It does not include associated labor and taxes.

 

It is, however, the price of having a community bookstore in Richmond for years to come––a place in which the community has shown immense support and is eager to patronize the larger version of our store.

 

You can take a tour of the store here: https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=B1t31dxioz3

Now imagine it bigger and better!!

 

Other ways you can help

Shop at our online bookstore www.multiculturalbookstore.com

 

If you are in or nearby Richmond, drop by, browse our titles, and take books home.