Pop-up Bookshop

Shop owner Jeannine Cook outside Harriett’s Bookshop in Fishtown. Photo: Brianna Bolden

Named in honor of Harriet Tubman, Harriett’s Bookshop in Philadelphia celebrates women authors and artists. But the shop’s owner, writer and activist Jeannine Cook, does more than just sell books. 

Cook is deeply embedded in her community. She organized a book drive for essential workers during the pandemic and curated material for local educators. During the George Floyd protests, she gave away books about anti-racism to marchers.

On Saturday, August 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Swarthmore resident (and Swarthmorean associate editor) Satya Nelms will host a sidewalk sale for Harriett’s in Swarthmore. Nelms has chosen seven titles by writers of color based on recommendations culled from the Swarthmorean’s summer reading lists. The titles span young adult fiction, adult fiction, poetry, and children’s books.

The pop-up bookshop will be located on the sidewalk in front of Harvey Oak Mercantile (H.O.M.), 102 Park Ave.

For more information, email satyanelms@gmail.com.