Books & More

Since we opened our flagship store in 2005, we have been fortunate to work with organizational partners who "think local", yet have an impact globally. These partners help us nourish each guest's mind, body and soul, providing everything from Moleskines (writer's trusted notebooks) and revolutionaries' memoirs to spray paint and fair trade trinkets.

In 2005, we welcomed the non-profit Teaching for Change into our 14th & V location to offer socially conscious readers access to progressive resources seldom found elsewhere. Prior to the opening, these materials were sought after by teachers, parents and activists across the U.S. online, but found their brick-and-mortar home at Busboys. In addition to operating the Teaching for Change's Busboys and Poets Bookstore, the organization also helps to host many of our renowned author events.

In 2008, we invited Global Exchange Fair Trade stores to set up shop at both our Shilrington and 5th & K locations, selling products from around the world with fair prices for consumers and fair prices paid to producers. Global Exchange is an international human rights organization dedicated to promoting social, economic and environmental justice since 1988. Originated in California, their Fair Trade stores at Busboys and Poets are the only east coast locations, let alone the only locations outside California. They are the store for book sales for author events that come to Shirlington and 5th & K.

Our newest retail partner, Art Under Pressure, which opened in 2011 at our Hyattsville location, sells the works of local artisans exclusively, as well as select publications (books, magazines, etc.), fine art and graffiti supplies. Its youth and education focus comes directly from the owner, Cory L. Stowers, a writer who has practiced, taught and documented the public name writing tradition (commonly known as "graffiti") for over 15 years. Stowers aims to nurture young graffiti writers and help them to develop marketable skills through their artwork.