Busboys and Poets aims to not only be a restaurant, but also a space in which intellectual, cultural, political, and social issues can come together for a discussion that benefits everyone. Busboys and Poets Books is a space devoted to strengthening the communities our stores are in throughout DC, MD, and VA through access to socially-conscious literature, programs, healing conversations and a respectful exchange of ideas. We do not tolerate any hate speech,  including racism, transphobia or homophobia, as all Busboys and Poets are safe spaces for folks of all races, gender identities, sexualities, (dis)abilities, national origins, and ages. 

We have a deep commitment to showcasing books and authors—on a local and national level—who have contributed to conversations concerning great social struggles. Prominently featuring the black struggle for civil rights, this also extends to issues of women’s and LGBTQ+ liberation, and more generally to the experiences of all the dispossessed and marginalized in this country. Our programs are a cultural hub for artists, writers, activists, thinkers, and dreamers, and we want everyone to leave feeling refreshed and full of love! We welcome all authors, including those who are just getting their feet wet here at Busboys and Poets. 

Visit us in store to get personalized recommendations from our staff at the following locations: 14th & V, 450K, Columbia, Hyattsville, Shirlington, and Takoma. We hope to see you soon, but in case you can’t visit us in person you can ORDER BOOKS ONLINE HERE or ship a little (non-food) piece of BUSBOYS HOME TO YOU 

Need some additional help or direction? No problem! Please see the following list of contacts/emails for relevant bookstore business and affairs. Don’t see anything that fits who you’re looking for? Reach out to books@busboysandpoets.com and someone will reach back out within a business day. 

Billing/AR Inquiries: BookBilling@busboysandpoets.com 

Book Event Inquiries: bookevents@busboysandpoets.com

Special Order Inquiries:  books@busboysandpoets.com

New Vendor Inquiries: books@busboysandpoets.com

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