Novelist Maura Cheeks has launched Liz’s Book Bar in Brooklyn, New York, blending a love for literature with a passion for fine beverages.
Named in honor of her grandmother Elizabeth Parker, the Black-owned establishment in Carroll Gardens offers a cozy haven for bookworms and wine aficionados alike.
Reflecting on her inspiration, Cheeks shared with Brooklyn Magazine:
“We were always going to bookstores when I was younger. My grandmother was always handing me a very thick book to read, and she’s part of the reason I’m a writer as well. So it just felt like a great way to honor her legacy.”
Cheeks, recently celebrated for her debut novel “Acts of Forgiveness,” explores themes inspired by her literary journey.
The novel delves into a fictional Philadelphia Forgiveness Act, advocating reparations for Black families. For Cheeks, Liz’s Book Bar is more than a business venture; it’s a community hub fostering connections.
“I’ve always wanted to create a public space where people can connect with strangers and neighbors and just hang out,” Cheeks explained. “A place that’s not home, that’s not work, where you feel comfortable just spending time, is really important.”
Transitioning from a career in marketing to working at Manhattan’s Book Club Bar provided valuable insights for Cheeks, shaping her vision for Liz’s Book Bar.
Unlike typical bookstores, the focus here isn’t solely on new releases but on rediscovering forgotten gems and enjoying them alongside a glass of wine.
“We’re not emphasizing new releases,” Cheeks stated. “I would love for people to discover old books that they perhaps haven’t read before.”
Customers like Brooklyn resident Alysha Hall appreciate the bookstore’s mission and ethos.
“You know, we’re losing small businesses left and right. It’s so nice to be able to support an establishment in this time that supports reading and learning, and is owned by someone that maybe the chips are kind of stacked against,” Hall shared. “So yeah, it was a no-brainer — we were coming, and we’re probably gonna be here a lot.”
Liz’s Book Bar stands out not only for its literary offerings but also for its commitment to building community and honoring cultural legacies.
As it opens its doors in Brooklyn, it promises to be a cherished space where books and beverages blend seamlessly to inspire and delight.
