Leonard:

We've run Changing Minds Bookstore (formerly Frugal Bookstore) in Roxbury since 2008. Stocking books written by Black and Latino people, sharing stories about communities like ours, and strengthening our intellectual, literate culture.

Clarrissa:

When I was growing up in Roxbury’s Orchard Park, I was an avid reader. My mother got new books each month in the mail. I was always at the library, reading books and encyclopedias. I loved Anne of Green Gables, Sweet Valley High, the Babysitters Club.

But it was only later that I learned how many Black authors and stories I was missing. I devoured Terry McMillan books, Push by Sapphire, and others.

Now, our evolution continues. Frugal Bookstore has become Changing Minds Bookstore.

And Literacy Works is how we help Black and other youth find books where they can see themselves and imagine their futures. It’s an amazing feeling, and we’re honored to provide that connection.

We built Literacy Works to expand the community-focused, charitable work that has always been part of our bookselling business: supporting literacy and book ownership.

Now, we’re taking our impact to the next level. We’ve partnered with public schools, housing developments, libraries, and other community institutions. And we’re asking for your help!