On the Eastside of Detroit, a beacon of culture, community, and literacy shines through Next Chapter Books, co-founded by Jay Williams. This isn’t just any bookstore. It’s a place where books transcend their traditional roles, becoming instruments of comfort, windows to new worlds, and catalysts for change. The journey of Jay Williams to the inception of Next Chapter Books is a testament to the transformative power of reading and a deep-seated commitment to justice and equality.
Jay’s love for books was ignited in his youth, with pivotal moments shaping his future. As an eighth grader, George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” opened his eyes to the themes of injustice and power dynamics. Later, the “Autobiography of Malcolm X” at seventeen further cemented his passion for history and activism. These reads didn’t just educate him; they inspired him to make a tangible difference in society. This passion is now the driving force behind Next Chapter Books mission and values, aiming to challenge societal determinants through the power of literature.
Although they’re a bookstore, it is not your ordinary bookstore, and it has a unique two-pronged approach to prove it. The first is upliftment. We are amid a climate where the censoring of books, including those written by Black authors, is encouraged. For Next Chapter Books, it is imperative to give authors of color a platform to have their books sold and their narratives heard, given that these stories emphasize an often ignored experience.
Promoting diversity and inclusivity is a core value for us, we strongly believe in giving voice to marginalized communities, especially Black writers, and displaying their books in our store.
The bookstore’s second approach is about preserving the essence of traditional bookstores as community hubs. It’s a space where individuals gather, exchange ideas, and celebrate creativity through various events like author readings, poetry recitals, and open mic nights. This not only reflects the community’s vibrancy but actively contributes to its growth and cohesion.
The dream of opening Next Chapter Books was long-held by Jay and his wife, Sarah. It became a reality with their youngest child heading to college and the pandemic’s end providing a new beginning. Their collaboration with local organizations, including E. Warren Development Corp, was instrumental in bringing this vision to life. After a successful five month pop-up at the Alger Theatre, the positive feedback and support from the community and entities like ProsperUs Detroit bolstered their confidence to establish a permanent location. Thus, they decided to open their new store at 16555 E. Warren Ave, Detroit, MI.
As Next Chapter Books looks to the future, the owners, Jay and Sarah, envision a space that continues to serve and enrich the community. Plans to enhance the bookstore experience with partnerships, like a local coffee shop, aim to create a welcoming environment for discussions, learning, and relaxation. The goal is to cement Next Chapter Books as a community pillar, fostering growth, positivity, and a shared love for books.
They hope to continue serving the community for as long as possible and make Next Chapter Books a place people will always want to return to. Stay connected with Next Chapter Books, or explore their online bookstore by following them on Facebook and Instagram, or visiting their website.
