ONE YEAR OF IMPACT

In just one year, NAB² has advanced the visibility of Black-owned bookstores, strengthened their economic sustainability, and expanded professional resources and community connections across its national network.

A major part of this work has focused on public recognition and awareness. The launch of the State of the Black Bookstore Report provided the first data-driven national snapshot of the Black bookstore ecosystem. Alongside it, the National Black Bookstore Directory has become a widely used public resource for discovering and engaging with Black-owned bookstores nationwide, drawing more than 10,000 visits in a single day. Together, these efforts have significantly expanded awareness and recognition of Black-owned bookstores across the country.

At the same time, NAB² has worked to strengthen the long-term economic sustainability of Black-owned bookstores. Its initiatives have generated more than $1 million in bookstore revenue through coordinated book-buy campaigns and expanded access to author tours. The organization has also invested in professional development, launching its education series and awarding $14,000 in scholarships to support Black bookstores attending major industry events.

Community-building has been another key focus. NAB² grew its national membership to 187, strengthening its collective reach and advocacy power. It also launched the Black Pack Party, an in-person gathering that brings together booksellers, publishers, authors, and literary professionals—with plans to build on this momentum through additional networking opportunities, including a second Black Pack Party during Black Lit Weekend.

Taken together, these efforts reflect a year of significant momentum across visibility, economic opportunity, and community-building. In its next year, NAB² will continue to build on this work to further advance a more connected, powerful, and sustainable national ecosystem of Black-owned bookstores.