We don’t just sell books!

As a mother-daughter duo, we combine our mutual passion for Black culture and love for reading to create spaces and events that cultivate joy, community, and shared learning while centering the Black experience throughout the African diaspora.

Our Mission

Promote Childhood Literacy

We believe every child deserves access to books that reflect their experiences and inspire their dreams.

Renew and Strengthen Interest in American History

Through carefully curated selections and community discussions, we help people connect with and understand our shared history.

Celebrate the Beauty of Blackness

We center the Black experience throughout the African diaspora, showcasing the richness of our culture, stories, and contributions.

Create Community

We provide more than books—we provide community, education, and celebration of Black culture in Western New York.

Our Impact

Since launching, over 750 community members have attended our various events, including:

  • Reading sessions in MLK Jr. Park
  • Book clubs and reading groups
  • Signature book experiences
  • Panel discussions and author events

Notable Achievements

May 2024: We hosted our largest event to date at Villa Maria College—a public discussion on His Name is George Floyd: One Man’s Life and the Struggle for Racial Justice, featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning authors Robert Samuels and Toluse Olorunnipa of The Washington Post.

October 2024: We were honored with the Energizing Entrepreneur Award by Sadie’s Books & Beverages in Middletown, NY.

  • Community Partnerships

    We’re proud to work alongside organizations that share our commitment to community empowerment:

    • The John R. Oishei Foundation
    • Buffalo Prep
    • Community Health Center of Buffalo
    • United Way of Buffalo and Erie County
    • M&T Bank
    • Villa Maria College
    • WNY Women’s Foundation

  • Our Promise

    Second Chapter Bookstore provides more than books—we provide community, education, and celebration of Black culture in Western New York.

    Whether you’re looking for your next great read, seeking to connect with like-minded community members, or wanting to support childhood literacy initiatives, we invite you to be part of our story. Because at Second Chapter Bookstore, every ending is just the beginning of something beautiful.
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Visit us today and discover why over 750 community members have made Second Chapter Bookstore their home for literature, learning, and community connection.