Atlanta readers are preparing to say goodbye to a longtime community fixture. Medu Bookstore at Greenbriar Mall is set to close as owner Nia Damali prepares for retirement. The store has been a significant part of the community for more than three decades.
Medu Bookstore Is Shutting Its Doors Permanently
The African-American bookstore that was featured in the Atlanta Tribune Magazine in 2018 is bidding goodbye. After 35 years in business, Greenbriar Mall’s Medu Bookstore is closing its doors permanently. The store specializes in culturally significant and hard-to-find books.
According to WBS-TV, owner Nia Damali has decided on this closure after being in business for decades. The store opened in December 1989, with a name that means “the power of the word.” Once considered one of Atlanta’s largest African American-owned bookstores, Medu earned a loyal following over the years.
Meanwhile, it has strived hard to keep readers culturally aware and spread the same within the community. For years, the store has welcomed many authors for signings. The bookstore hosted author signings featuring figures such as Andrew Young, John Lewis, Jesse Jackson, Susan L. Taylor, and Terry McMillan.
Readers who appreciated Damali’s love for African American literature are often seen visiting the store. Unfortunately, with this closure, the community is soon to lose a beloved stop that has attracted readers from everywhere.
Reason Behind the Closure
The closure comes with Damali’s plans to retire this year. After several decades of showcasing up-and-coming Black authors, she believes it is time to let go. As retirement calls, she is going to go along but will not end her service to the community.
As a published author herself, she is to continue her work with the literary community. The bookstore is expected to remain open for a few more months as Damali prepares for the transition.
Community Reaction
As the store prepares to close in a few months, the community is shaken by the news. A beloved destination for readers in Atlanta, Medu Bookstore has been a favorite. But with the announcement of the closure, all they have is immense gratitude for the store.
The community has taken this opportunity to share their gratitude to Medu Bookstore. Apart from words of thanks, they are reminiscing about the educational and fun moments spent at the store. While the end is getting closure, they are happy to be a part of Medu’s journey.
