Socialight Society, the bookstore focused on Black women and Black literature, will close its bricks-and-mortar store in the Lansing Mall in Lansing, Mich., later this month, the Lansing State Journal reported. The store initially opened as a microshop in November 2021.
In late February, store owner Nyshell Lawrence announced on Facebook that she would be closing the physical bookstore on March 22. After that, the bookstore will continue to sell books online, and Lawrence plans to host pop-up events in the Lansing area. The store's membership program will continue, though the perks will shift slightly with the physical store closed.
Lawrence wrote: "For years, Socialight Society has been more than a bookstore. It's been a movement, a gathering space, a love letter to Black women and our stories. Every event, every book recommendation, every conversation held in this space has meant something. It's been a place of joy, connection, and celebration. And that part doesn't change."
She noted that the decision was not made lightly, and she emphasized that though the physical storefront is closing, it's not the end for Socialight Society. "As bittersweet as this transition is, I also know that this is not the end--it's an expansion. Socialight Society is shifting, but the mission remains. The work continues. And I promise you--we're just getting started. There is so much more ahead, and I can't wait to step into this next chapter with you."