N.C. Black-owned children’s bookstore truimphs, set to reopen after acts of intimidation

Victoria Scott-Miller, owner of Liberation Station Bookstore, is charting a bold path forward after threats forced her to close her original location in 2024.

Liberation Station Bookstore reopening: triumphs after threats

Now, she’s working to reopen the nation’s first Black children’s bookstore in time for Juneteenth 2026. This time within a newly envisioned hub for Black-owned businesses in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The new space, Scott-Miller says, will be more than retail. “It will be a sanctuary where Black children are seen, affirmed, and safe to explore who they are through story.”

About Liberation Station Bookstore

Liberation Station Bookstore has long been a cultural cornerstone, championing inclusive literature and safe spaces for families of color.

The bookstore first opened its doors on Juneteenth 2023 in Raleigh, founded and run by Scott-Miller alongside her husband and son. What began as a grassroots endeavor—selling books from the trunk of their car and at pop-up events—quickly blossomed into a vibrant literary hub.

As momentum grew, Scott-Miller made the bold decision to establish a brick-and-mortar storefront in the heart of Raleigh. But just one year later, the family faced a harrowing wave of racism and threats, ultimately prompting a temporary closure.

Newfound roots

Today, Liberation Station has found new roots in a plaza intentionally created to uplift and house Black-owned businesses. Scott-Miller where healing is nurtured by an outpouring of community support.

Poignantly, the bookstore’s new location stands just 400 feet from the Raleigh Police Department’s Southeast Station —an unmistakable juxtaposition that reflects both resilience and reclamation.

Its anticipated return has ignited a groundswell of support. Actress and entrepreneur Tabitha Brown contributed $10,000 to the reopening effort, praising Scott-Miller’s “unwavering commitment to storytelling and safe havens.”

Community support

Scott-Miller continues to rally support from local organizations, individual donors, and community allies to cover construction costs and programming.

“Every dollar you give helps us build this sanctuary—one that redefines what’s possible when we put care, creativity, and culture first,” Scott-Miller said.

To learn more or support the initiative, visit Liberation Station Bookstore’s GoFundMe campaign page.