Kwame Spearman Leaves Denver Book Society; Scholastic Revenues Slip 2% in Third Quarter

Kwame Spearman has stepped away from his co-ownership position at Denver Book Society in Denver, Colo., barely a month after the bookstore opened. Spearman’s departure follows community backlash over comments he made on immigration enforcement during his 2023 mayoral campaign. Owner Rich Garvin said that Spearman’s continued involvement was “not serving the mission of this bookstore.” Spearman stated that the bookstore has reached the point where he would transition out of his role, with Garvin leading it forward. Spearman said that he has spent the last several years trying to build and contribute in Denver. Garvin posted that DBS exists to be a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone.

  • Kwame Spearman has stepped away from his co-ownership position at Denver Book Society in Denver, Colo., barely a month after the bookstore opened
  • Spearman’s departure follows community backlash over comments he made on immigration enforcement during his 2023 mayoral campaign.
  • Garvin posted that DBS exists to be a welcoming, inclusive space for everyone
📚 BookAddict’s Take: If you’re opening a bookstore, be aware that the political views of the owners will be scrutinized by the community.

Source: Shelf Awareness (newsletter)  | 
Read the full article →