Liberty City’s Roots Bookstore & Market is marking its first year in business with a celebration centered on literacy, culture and community.
The independent Black-owned bookstore and cultural hub will host its inaugural Roots Book Fair on Friday, June 19, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. along Historic Northwest 15th Avenue. The free event is open to the public and will feature local authors, artists, educators and community leaders in recognition of Juneteenth.
Since opening its doors last year, Roots has become a gathering space for readers, writers and families, hosting author talks, youth programming, cultural events and community initiatives while helping breathe new life into the Historic Northwest 15th Avenue corridor.
The book fair will bring together more than 20 local authors and vendors for a day of book signings, author readings, spoken word performances, community discussions and family-friendly activities. Attendees will also have opportunities to support local businesses and connect with organizations working throughout the community.
Featured authors and presenters include veteran journalist Bea Hines, historian Dr. Marvin Dunn, poet Aja Monet, author Daniela Jean, and Brandon Vega and Phil Agnew, co-authors of P.S. I Eye Value You.
The event will also include remarks from local elected officials and community leaders. A tribute to Miami bass music will close out the celebration from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., featuring the legendary Sugarhill DJs as part of Black Music Month festivities.
“The Roots Book Fair is a celebration of community, literacy, freedom and the power of Black stories,” Roots co-owner Isaiah Thomas said in a statement. “It honors our history while investing in the future of our neighborhood.”
Organizers expect hundreds of residents, students, educators and visitors from across South Florida to attend. The event reflects Roots’ ongoing mission to promote literacy, cultural engagement and community empowerment while creating space for Black stories and voices to thrive.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and watch our weekly LIVE podcast news show every Thursday at 5:30pm. Subscribe to our YouTube page to get alerts for the show.
Do you have news to share? If so, send Hy-Lo News your story ideas by clicking here.
0 comments on “Roots Bookstore & Market Celebrates First Anniversary With Inaugural Juneteenth Book Fair in Liberty City”