Woman works to open Utah’s first Black‑owned brick‑and‑mortar bookstore

SALT LAKE CITY — Award‑winning editor and author Olivia Nightingale is working to open Crowne Books as Utah’s first Black‑owned brick‑and‑mortar bookstore. Nightingale says the store will center Black literature and create a welcoming space where stories, culture and community can thrive.

Although Utah has a Black‑owned mobile bookstore, the state has no permanent Black‑owned bookstore. According to the National Association of Black Bookstores, only 306 Black‑owned bookstores operate, representing about 8% of independent bookstores. Fourteen states have none at all.

A Mission Rooted in Representation and Literacy

Nightingale moved to Utah in 2021 and quickly noticed the lack of “third spaces” for Black residents. She believes the state can support a Black‑owned bookstore and says the community wants one.

Nightingale describes literacy as liberation and sees the store as part of her legacy. She wants Crowne Books to serve as a safe, inclusive space for the Black community, allies and readers of all backgrounds.

What Crowne Books Will Offer

Crowne Books will specialize in literature written by and about African Americans, Africans and the African Diaspora. The store will carry new and used titles across genres, including comics, manga and graphic novels.

In an interview with The Salt Lake Trubune, Nightingale says the name “Crowne Books” reflects her journey with natural hair and the belief that Black literature is “royal and precious.”

A Pop‑Up Phase Before a Permanent Home

Nightingale is working with the Salt Lake Department of Economic Development and community partners to secure a permanent location. She is also exploring other areas of Utah that may be a strong fit.

GoFundMe

For now, she has expanded Crowne Books’ presence through pop‑ups across the state. She launched a fundraising campaign to support this effort. The initial $7,500 goal will allow her to buy more than 500 books by Black authors, upgrade the point‑of‑sale system, acquire signage and shelving, secure insurance and permits, and stock products from at least 15 Black‑owned stationery and gift brands.

A Long‑Term Vision for 2027

If the campaign meets its goals, Crowne Books will move into stage two, which includes revealing a permanent location and adding a book truck. The final stage is the grand opening of Utah’s first Black‑owned brick‑and‑mortar bookstore in 2027.

Nightingale says the project is about more than books. It is about combating rising illiteracy, expanding representation and building a cultural home for Utah’s Black community.

To learn more about the fundraiser or donate, visit the verified GoFundMe.

To learn more about Crowne Books, visit their website.