In our final part of this three-part series, we’re exploring four more bookstores located in Buffalo, New York! For this week we’ll be making a stop over at Alice Ever After, Black Rock Books, Dog Ears Bookstore and Fitz Books & Waffles!
Owned and operated by Aaron Bartley, Fitz Books & Waffles opened its doors at its current location in fall of 2021. Focusing on an eclectic mix of new & used books, carefully curated by the store’s owner, Fitz is also regarded for its famous “hand-held, yeasted-liege” waffles, which come in a variety of flavors, and come complimented by an assortment of teas and coffee. On several of the store’s walls are a variety of local art, some of which is available for purchase.
We believe that a reading revolution is key to countering American fascism and white supremacy. We hope that our inviting bookstore lays bare the connections between literature, art, insight and liberation.
Located on Abbott Road in South Buffalo, Thomas McDonnell operates Dog Ears Bookstore, which first opened its doors in 2008. Run by volunteers, Dog Ears caters to lovers of new and old books alike, though their bestsellers tend to skew towards local authors. There is also a cafe attached to the bookstore, allowing customers to sit and read while enjoying coffee or a treat. Dog Ears is also connected to several Buffalo nonprofits, such as the Enlightenment Literary Arts Center, who can be found on the 2nd floor of the same building.
Corrie Stone-Johnson, a professor in educational leadership at the University of Buffalo, founded Black Rock Books just this year (2023!) and already Black Rock Books appears poised to become a centerpiece of the Buffalo-area literary scene. Johnson’s store is independently owned, carrying a mix of books, stationary and puzzles, with a focus on literary fiction representing underrepresented voices and educational justice. Black Rock Books favors a cozy atmosphere, with plentiful seating for customers to simply chill as they relax with their newest book!
Nestled in the Parkside area, directly beside Jam cafe & the Buffalo Zoo, Alice Ever After is a children’s bookstore, owned and operated by Megan Howe (a teacher for over fifteen years, as well as an aspiring children’s book author!) which opened its doors in 2021. Alice Ever After has a curated collection of diverse children’s literature, along with a designed open-space approach for families: perfectly curated for children to explore and enjoy the variety of books and toys on-hand.
And with that we’ve wrapped up our exploration of local bookstores throughout the Buffalo area! Hopefully this little series has helped you find a new favorite place (or three?) - and the next time you're itching to wander through a bookstore, why not try skipping Barnes & Noble and instead visit any of the wonderful local stores in our community!
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