Explore Harriet Tubman’s Legacy Through Literature, Art, and Activism at This Philadelphia Bookstore

Introduction to Harriett’s Bookshop

Harriett’s Bookshop opened in February 2020 and managed to weather the pandemic.

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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its indie bookstores, and the opening of Harriett’s Bookshop in February 2020 enhanced this vibrant literary scene.

Mission and Vision

Jeannine A. Cook, the writer and educator who founded the store, came with a clear vision. Her mission includes honoring the legacy of Harriet Tubman, a historical figure celebrated for her contributions. This inspiration is reflected not only in the name of the bookshop but also in the materials featured in Cook’s published works.

Cook describes Harriett’s as a monument, a space for honoring Harriet’s legacy and initiating dialogues around important issues. Her book, “Conversations with Harriett,” reflects her commitment to celebrating women authors, artists, and activists. Although the shop features works from various authors, a majority are women, highlighted to celebrate their contributions to literature.

Community Impact

Visitors can explore an array of genres at Harriett’s, with foundational texts from notable authors like Zora Neale Hurston, Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, and Octavia Butler always available. Consequently, Cook collaborates with local artists to refresh the shop’s collection each month by showcasing books that have influenced their creative journeys.

By leveraging her education background, Cook has cultivated Harriett’s as more than just a bookstore; rather, it is described by many as a literary sanctuary. She encourages thoughtful discussions and prompts visitors to critique and analyze the literature they consume.

Cook enhances understanding by organizing events and thoughtful discussions, including guided tours that encourage contemplative moments. Additionally, she leverages engaging teaching methods with thought-provoking questions displayed throughout the shop.

Events and Engagement

Cook’s commitment to fostering community dialogue and activism makes Harriett’s a distinctive space. Community members appreciate her outreach efforts, including distributing free books and organizing local events.

Drawing on her passion for community engagement, Cook effectively demonstrates how bookstores can serve as catalysts for change. Eric Smith, an author and literary agent, remarks on how Harriett’s enhances the neighborhood feel, asserting that bookstores can create a welcoming environment.

Growth and Future Plans

The resilience exhibited by Harriett’s is evident in its ability to navigate challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following a brief closure due to health regulations, Cook ingeniously transformed sidewalk operations into a successful grab-and-go setup. This venture attracted positive community responses, proving the ongoing importance of access to literature.

Although operations have since resumed inside the shop, Cook occasionally maintains outdoor services, understanding that this approach broadens reach. In 2021, Harriett’s successfully launched a GoFundMe campaign to secure the property, achieving its fundraising goals in record time, thereby ensuring a permanent home for the bookshop.

On a larger scale, Cook is now focused on advocating for a federal holiday to honor Harriet Tubman. Having succeeded in getting March 10 designated as a city holiday in Philadelphia, Cook aspires for national recognition, a milestone yet unmet in the nation’s history.

She will continue to serve her community, aiming to utilize literature and education as means to “eradicate ignorance.”

Visit Harriett’s Bookshop at 258 E Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19125.

Jessica Poitevien is a contributor currently based in South Florida, continuously seeking her next adventure. Her interests include baking, engaging with strangers, and long beach walks. Follow her adventures on Instagram.