Bookstores play a transformative role in the shaping of social movements. Feminist bookstores hold historical significance as hubs for growth and knowledge, and as places where community was allowed to flourish. In the late 20th century, feminist bookstores started to close their doors as online and corporate booksellers started to gain popularity. Modern bookstores carry a legacy of inclusivity, yet there remains the question of whether they adequately fulfill the role of catering to diverse communities. Analyzing the intersection of literature, activism, and community-building, will reveal the evolving dynamics of bookstores as crucial spaces for fostering social change and empowerment.
Brigid Smith, a native of Des Moines, Iowa, is a passionate scholar with majors in History and Anthropology and a minor in Spanish. Her academic journey is driven by a profound curiosity for understanding how historical narratives shape modern-day culture. Post-graduation, she is excited to continue to discover new historical research and is set to pursue a Masters of History at Marquette University.
Dr. O'Neill contributed greatly to the success of this capstone. Brigid wants to express her gratitude for his guidance and support throughout the development of her recent capstone. Dr. O'Neill's encouragement and insightful feedback were instrumental in shaping the content of the paper. Thank you, Dr. O'Neill, for your unwavering commitment to academic excellence and for being such an inspirational mentor.