If you've been in Berkeley, then you must have seen the branch of Revolution Books nestled in a plaza downstairs by a parking garage. The Los Angeles, Spanish-language version is tucked away on 8th and Hill among the various clothing vendors, nestled next to a pet shop. After a visit to one of the first South Park Flea Markets (when it was held on Olive and 8th), a friend and I wandered around SoDo and spent some time at Libros Revolucion. I hadn't expected to come across this bookstore while wandering toward the Jewelry District, and was excited to go inside to peruse their stock of political texts and materials. The rear part of the store is an open space reserved for events and readings. I've yet to return since my first visit, unfortunately.
Being a proud bastian of the Revolutionary Communist Party, USA, it is not surprising that a Google Search revealed that Libros Revolucion faced serious harassment when it opened in the late 1980s. This letter published in the New York Review of Books in 1989 cites
"Uniformed and plainclothes police, right-wing religious fundamentalists with bullhorns, and callers identifying themselves as members of "death squads" appear to be working in concert to intimidate people associated with the store."
It's good to know that the store has stood strong for nearly twenty years.
Libros Revolucion
312 West 8th St.
90014
213-488-1303
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 12PM-8PM
I was going to go in when I passed by, cause I was looking for "Change Links" a progressive newspaper. But I thought that maybe this was only for hispanics? I don'tknow?
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure if they had Change Links, but there's a good chance they do. I've updated the post with their phone number if you'd like to give them a call to find out.
ReplyDeleteThey had some Spanish-language literature, but the majority of books seemed to be in English. From the friendly reception I got when I went inside, I don't think they would discriminate based on race. Reading and revolution are for everyone. :n)
Yeah, I'll give them a call. My school use to have them but I quess no was reading it, but thanks.
ReplyDeleteha-ha thanx for this post!
ReplyDeleteWe are def NOt just for Hispanics, the majority of our books (like 90 percent are in English), tho i could see why you would think so!
-Nikolai Garcia, volunteer staf