Only black-owned bookstore in Pinellas celebrates 20 years

ST. PETERSBURG – Twenty years ago, Tangela Murph Bailey decided to open a mobile bookstore as a result of not being able to find African-American books in local shops. She began selling books from her car and then her home, finally opening a storefront in St. Pete.

Over the years, she has been steadfast in her commitment to this community and has promoted new authors, artists, poets and musicians, young and old.

Reader’s Choice carries a large selection of book and gift items as well as church supplies such as bibles, Sunday school books, communion supplies, bible covers, Christian art, choir and pastoral robe, which has to be ordered.

Join Murph Bailey and help her and the Reader’s Choice crew Saturday, Nov. 25 to celebrate 20 years of serving the community with live music, free refreshments and poetry readings. Authors will be on hand to discuss their works and read excerpts from their books such as Melonie Washington who wrote the page-turner entitled “Natural Hair Care.”

This is a free event for all book lovers, authors, poets and families, from 2-5 p.m. Reader’s Choice is located at 4341 34TH St. S.

Please continue to support African-American owned business in the community that continues to struggle to survive in this challenging market.

Call (727) 867-3696 for more information.