Event Recap: CLASS Bookstore opens in Third Ward Houston
Images: CLASS BOOKSTORE
Words by: TJ Void
On December 3rd, 2022, CNK sole sister Dara Landry (@she.landry) and her sneaker loving husband David cut the ribbon on the inaugural brick and mortar location of Class Bookstore. Nicknamed “The Residency”, the independent bookstore is located on the campus of Texas Southern University, an HBCU in Houston, TX.
Inspired by the lack of Black bookstore owners, the Landry’s snapped into action by trekking across states to gain firsthand knowledge of the business from other Black bookstore owner and operators.
“We got a chance to go to Eso Won, which is a Black bookstore in Leimert Park,” recalls Dara. “The owners at the time just gave us the game.”
“So from the design to even the books that we carry; it was this idea of bringing book knowledge and making it hip and making it cool. We’re children of hip hop.”
One peek into Class Bookstore, and the sneaker boutique influence is undeniable. One could easily replace the books in each section with sneakers and the feel would remain.
“If you can make books as cool as sneakers, that’s the win.” explains David. “So from the design to even the books that we carry; it was this idea of bringing book knowledge and making it hip and making it cool. We’re children of hip hop.”
That ode to hip hop is present in the shop with artwork and 2Pac o’clock where the namesake’s music plays during the 2 o’clock hour every operating business day.
“As two sneaker enthusiasts and streetwear lovers. We wanted the bookstore to have our flair. We, as book lovers, didn’t want it to look inauthentic to who we are as people.”
Class Bookstore has a mission to appeal to those who aren’t classic readers. They strive to provide a place where a love for knowledge is bred and nurtured without compromise and free from stereotypes or judgements.
Be sure to drop by Class Bookstore “The Residency” on Saturdays from 10am to 8pm or Sundays from 1pm to 8pm. Log on to www.classbookstore.com and follow Class on Instagram @classbookstore.
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